099 Introduction to Concrete, ENGR 17
Seminar Syllabus

Introduction

This self-paced four module Introduction to Concrete seminar is an introduction to both Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) and Asphaltic Concrete. PCC, hereinafter called concrete, is arguably the world’s most used construction material. Students will become familiar with the materials and properties of each along the manipulators used including formwork, additives, and reinforcement. Students will develop an awareness of installation techniques for horizontal and vertical concrete, uses for tilt-up and precast concrete. Students will develop a working understanding of weather’s impact on concrete and the uses of asphaltic concrete. This seminar provides both an introduction to concrete and an opportunity to deepen your industry knowledge of a material used all over the world in diverse conditions.

self-paced

A self paced course can be started at anytime. You must complete the course within 5 weeks but you can work through the course as quickly as you like. There are no weekly goals and no interaction with other students. Work at your own pace. Your unique completion date is included in the registration email you will receive from our office.

Learning objectives for Introduction to Concrete

By the end of this online seminar you should be able to:

Understand and use standard construction terminology as it relates to concrete and asphalt
Identify the materials used in Portland Cement Concrete
Differentiate between the different manipulators used and their purposes.
Explain different installation techniques for horizontal and vertical concrete.
Describe the special considerations for adverse weather concreting in both cold and hot weather.
Recognize the uses for tilt-up concrete and precast concrete
Identify the ingredients of Asphaltic Concrete and is use.

Seminar Organization and Grading

The seminar is organized into 4 learning modules with a capstone concrete project at the conclusion of the fourth module. Plan to study one module per week.

The Concrete Handbook created by Steven Richardson, CPE, JD. Steven has placed concrete in the United States as well as Kwajalein Atoll, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He has observed concrete work in Russia. His scientific approach to all things concrete will draw you into the world of concrete and give you a good foundation for understanding concrete and asphalt.

The following table lists the learning modules, the maximum point value a student can receive within each module, and the week in which the modules must be finished.

In each module there is a quiz. Half way through the seminar there is a written assignment (15 points). At the end of the seminar there is a practicum (20 points).

Module	Point Value	By End of Week
0. Student Orientation	0	Before start
1. Common Ingredients in PCC	20	1
2. Concrete Manipulators	20	2
3. Special Considerations for Adverse Weather Conditions	25	3
4. Asphaltic Concrete	35	4
Total Points	100

It is important that the student keep up with the seminar and not fall behind. Course modules will be released upon the completion of the quiz.

Grading Policies

Graded assignments will consist of one quiz for each module, submitting a mid term project, and final practicum.

Quiz grades will automatically be posted. You will have full access to your grade sheet so you will be able to keep track of how you are doing at all times.

Your overall grade in the course will be determined by the total number of points you have accumulated on quizzes and assignments. The grading scale is as follows:

A 100 to 89 points
B 88 to 79 points
C 78 to 69 points
D 69 to 59 points
F Anything less than 59 points

You will be given more information about the grading and other course matters in the Orientation Module.