Introducing Structures to Nonengineering Majors

Abstract

Education in structural engineering is traditionally the responsibility of colleges of engineering and architecture. However, a major segment of students in such fields as design, arts and sciences, and fine arts can benefit from the knowledge of structural theory, concepts, and language. Such material can be presented by excluding traditional higher level college mathematics and sciences as prerequisites. The use of nonmathematical techniques in presenting this subject can be of strategic importance in advancing the basic principles of engineering sciences to nonmajors and improve the badly needed dialogue between engineering and other professions. Nontraditional techniques will also broaden the scope of the students that engineering is a creative design profession. Introduction of structural concepts to undergraduates in arts and sciences using visual techniques, historic overview, basic mechanics, and structural theory will provide new information for their imagination, educational development, and interest in engineering sciences.