The overall aim of this module is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of construction materials, their properties, performance characteristics and applications in the built environment. It equips students with essential knowledge to make informed decisions regarding material selection, performance evaluation, and quality control in construction projects, while emphasising the importance of sustainability and innovation in the industry. This module addresses the growing need for construction professionals who can effectively evaluate and select appropriate materials based on various factors such as cost, durability, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance. By covering a range of topics from traditional materials to emerging sustainable solutions, students will develop a holistic understanding of construction materials and be better prepared to meet the challenges of modern construction practices.

The module covers key aspects of construction materials, providing students with a solid foundation in material properties, selection criteria, and performance evaluation. Students will gain an understanding of both traditional and innovative materials used in the construction industry, as well as their testing methods and quality control procedures. Indicative topics include: • Introduction to construction materials, including classification (e.g. natural, manufactured, composites), selection criteria, and sustainability considerations • Properties of construction materials, e.g. Physical (density, moisture content, thermal conductivity and sound insulation), Mechanical (strength, hardness, elasticity, ductility, toughness and fatigue), Chemical resistance, reactivity with environmental factors) • Concrete: composition, properties, sustainability concerns, mix design, proportioning, testing, quality control and special types such as high-strength, lightweight, self-compacting and eco-concrete • Metals: properties, applications, corrosion protection, welding and joining techniques, testing and quality control • Wood and timber: types, properties (e.g. strength, flexibility and moisture absorption), products, preservation, treatment and testing methods • Masonry materials: types, properties, testing and uses of bricks, blocks, stones, mortar and grout • Polymers and composites: types, properties, and applications in construction, bituminous materials and their application to paved surfaces, insulation materials, both thermal and sound, including organic and inorganic, glass-fibre reinforced composite material types and properties, sealants and jointing compounds including adhesives • Sustainable and green building materials: understanding energy efficiency, carbon footprint, life cycle assessment, embodied carbon and biodiversity impacts, hazardous materials and recycling potential • Regulatory compliance and industry standards for construction materials, including certification schemes such as BREEAM and LEED • Emerging trends and innovations in construction materials

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Analyse the physical, mechanical, chemical and performance properties of various construction materials and their impact on building performance. • Evaluate the suitability of construction materials based on factors such as cost, durability, sustainability, regulatory compliance and their scientific properties. • Apply knowledge of material testing methods and quality control procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards. • Assess the potential applications and limitations of emerging materials and technologies in modern construction practices.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Recognise the importance of ethically sourcing and selecting sustainable and environmentally responsible materials in construction projects. • Value the significance of continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in construction materials and technologies.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • N/A

This module aims to develop a significant understanding of construction materials, equipping graduates with the knowledge to make informed decisions on material selection, evaluation, and management. By integrating traditional and emerging practices, students will be prepared to address evolving challenges in construction, balancing performance, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Through the learning environment - using a focused teaching approach, resources and supports, we aim to develop expert learners and global citizens who are: Curious - through having a questioning mindset and a solution focused perspective. Courageous - understanding the importance of standing up for what is right and ethical. Responsible - for the correct usage of resources and their own impact on the world. Agile - utilising proactivity to adapt to and drive change in their community and career supported by a continuous learning approach. Articulate - in that they can express themselves with a confidence grounded in sound learning.  To develop these attributes, this module will be taught using a series of in-person lectures, tutorials and a selection of self-directed and collaborative learning activities so it is student-centred and in line with UL's Integrated Curriculum Development Framework (ICDF). Module learning materials are developed from a research-led perspective regarding content and the principles of Universal Design for Learning are used to ensure accessibility for all students. The module Brightspace site is designed and organised in a user-friendly format to maximise functionality. To allow for the incorporation of new developments and research findings in the subject material, the flexibility of blended learning methodologies is utilised - such as Flipped Classroom in the Tutorials, on-line video resources and recorded tutorials delivered through the Brightspace module site. The learning experience of students is directly affected by the design of learning materials, delivery of such materials and assessment thereof. The principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) have been applied so that Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation and Action & Expression are built in. Attention is also paid to the principles of Laurillard's ABC Curriculum Design process with all 6 learning types (Acquisition, Collaboration, Discussion, Investigation, Practice and Production) utilised in terms of delivery, engagement and assessment for the module. With regard to assessment - care is taken in the design of assessment vehicles used in the module so that they are challenge driven, authentic and constructively aligned with the Learning Objectives for the Module. A crucial piece of the learning experience is communication between faculty and students which is crucial for the success of this module. Communication between lecturer and students, as well as peer-to peer interactions, will be proactively managed primarily through the channels available on Brightspace, plus direct contact between faculty and students before and after lectures and via e-mail.