Factors Affecting Students’ Learning in Civil Engineering Measurement

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this study is to assess the factors affecting students’ learning in civil engineering measurement, with a view to enhancing students learning experiences and outcomes. The methodology adopted for this research was quantitative with the use of questionnaires distributed to 30 civil engineering students in their 3rd year, studying at a Nigerian university. The measurement of items in the survey questionnaire was based on a 5 point Likert scale. The data from the survey were analysed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and mean scores. The data from the survey were also presented in the form of pie chart and table. Teaching style was found to be the most significant factor affecting students’ learning in civil engineering measurement. Other significant factors were factors that had to do with the nature of the course which included difficulty with understanding the measurement process, measurement calculations, standard method of measurement (SMM), taking off sheet and terminology and acronyms. The findings also provided additional evidence to support a conducive learning environment and the use of teaching aids in enhancing learners’ experiences. The study focused only on civil engineering students from one university in Nigeria. More empirical evidence of the factors affecting students’ learning in civil engineering measurement can be obtained by considering other universities within and outside Nigeria. The findings place great responsibility on lecturers to improve their teaching styles. Moreover, the use of sufficient examples during teaching, and the use of 3D drawings such as Revit would greatly enhance the learning experiences of students in civil engineering measurement.