Teaching the Equivalent Rectangular Stress Block

J. Chris Carroll, Benjamin Z. Dymond, Anahid A. Behrouzi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

3 Scopus citations

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.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationBest Practices and Lessons Learned for Teaching Concrete Materials and Reinforced Concrete 2021
EditorsBenjamin Dymond, J. Chris Carroll
PublisherAmerican Concrete Institute
Pages109-126
Number of pages18
ISBN (Electronic)9781641952361
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
EventBest Practices and Lessons Learned for Teaching Concrete Materials and Reinforced Concrete 2021 - Virtual, Online
Duration: Oct 17 2021Oct 21 2021

Publication series

NameAmerican Concrete Institute, ACI Special Publication
VolumeSP-359
ISSN (Print)0193-2527

Conference

ConferenceBest Practices and Lessons Learned for Teaching Concrete Materials and Reinforced Concrete 2021
CityVirtual, Online
Period10/17/2110/21/21

Keywords

  • active learning
  • equivalent rectangular stress block
  • inquiry learning
  • physical artifacts
  • reinforced concrete
  • skeleton-style notes
  • visual learning

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • General Materials Science

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