Recommended Citation
Published in American Concrete Institute, Volume 359, Fall November 20, 2023, pages 109-126.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.14359/51740293.
Abstract
The equivalent rectangular stress block is the basis for determining the flexural strength of reinforced concrete members. Instructors commonly present the concept in two dimensions, contrary to its three-dimensional nature. Unfortunately, this can be particularly difficult for students to understand and visualize, especially for students with visual learning style preferences. This paper presents an overview of the equivalent rectangular stress block, select active learning methods, and four specific examples used by the authors to introduce the equivalent rectangular stress block in an undergraduate reinforced concrete design course. The first method focuses on understanding the terms associated with the equivalent rectangular stress block using a visual, hands-on learning activity; the second focuses on visualizing the internal forces and couple moment within a beam; the third uses a virtual three-dimensional model to derive the depth of the equivalent rectangular stress block; and the fourth illustrates the various stress blocks used in reinforced concrete flexure theory via physical three-dimensional models. Each description includes detailed instructions to create the resources and how to facilitate the related activities within a course. The overall goal is to provide educators with several examples that will help students better visualize the three-dimensional concept.
Disciplines
Architectural Engineering
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/aen_fac/154