The aim of this unit is to introduce civil engineering technology for construction and maintenance of infrastructure. Civil engineering is concerned with design, construction and maintenance of the built environment including bridges, tunnels, roads, railways and airports.
Infrastructures such as sewage, water, communication and electric systems, highways, tunnels and bridges provide the ability to easily transport goods and people.
If time or neglect renders infrastructures unusable, it becomes difficult for an economy and its citizens to remain connected. Hence, the quantity of infrastructure asset is not the only concern of a community but the condition that the infrastructure is in has a great importance.
Civil engineers are responsible for keeping the infrastructure running effectively and adapt it to meet the challenges faced by society.
This unit is intended to enable learners to gain a knowledge of civil engineering construction technologies in a broader vocational context. The unit is designed to make students aware of different stages in construction and maintenance of infrastructures, such as tunnels, bridges and highways including the earthwork activities, understanding of methods and techniques used in substructures and superstructures.
Topics included in this unit are: infrastructure components; earthworks and excavations; the substructure construction of foundations, piling and drainage systems; superstructure construction of highways and infrastructures; health and safety issues associated with civil engineering construction activities of infrastructures; modern civil engineering activities.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to investigate different stages and activities of infrastructure construction including substructure, superstructure and hazards encountered in the construction project. Students will be able to describe and analyse modern methods for construction for infrastructure and justify design solutions for infrastructure projects.
During this unit, you will cover the below four learning outcomes:
LO1: The learner will understand the fundamental principles surrounding structural foundations for civil engineering infrastructure.
LO2: The learner will be able to explain the methods and techniques used in highways, bridges, and tunnelling construction.
LO3: The learner will be able to demonstrate an awareness of the environmental, economic and regulatory issues surrounding infrastructure projects.
LO4: The learner will be able to explain maintenance strategies and contemporary solutions to infrastructure projects.
