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What is RECONSTRUCT?

RECONSTRUCT (Forensic Structural Engineering Database for HEI and Pilot Course with Innovative and Interactive Learning Methods) is a three-year Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnership in Higher Education (2024–2027). The project focuses on integrating forensic structural engineering (FSE) into civil engineering education, addressing the lack of training in structural failure assessment.

The initiative introduces a European-based collaborative blended-learning course at the master's level, incorporating real damage case studies, interactive digital tools, and gamification techniques like educational escape rooms. The project develops new teaching methodologies, provides practical case studies, and fosters cooperation between academia and industry to create a new standard in forensic engineering education.

Why is This Project Important?

Currently, civil engineering programs focus mainly on structural design and construction, with little emphasis on damage investigation and forensic engineering. However, real-world engineering practice requires expertise in:

• Failure analysis – Understanding why structures fail under earthquakes, fire, wind, and other extreme actions.
• Damage assessment methodologies – Applying engineering knowledge in forensic investigations.
• Evidence-based learning – Using real-world case studies and scientific approaches to evaluate failures.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration – Working with engineers, forensic experts, legal professionals, and stakeholders.

By integrating these aspects into higher education and lifelong learning strategies, RECONSTRUCT addresses a crucial gap and prepares students for real-world forensic engineering challenges.

Project Objectives

The key objectives of RECONSTRUCT are:

• Bridging the Knowledge Gap – Introducing forensic structural engineering as a core topic in higher education and lifelong learning programs.
• Case-Based Learning – Transforming real-world structural failures into interactive teaching modules.
• Gamification & Digital Learning – Using educational escape rooms and immersive learning tools to engage students.
• Cross-Sector Collaboration – Bringing together universities, industry professionals, and research institutions to develop best practices.
• Internationalization & Accessibility – Providing multilingual course materials to increase accessibility across Europe.

The project will develop a pilot course on forensic structural engineering at the master's level, with an interdisciplinary and problem-solving approach, focusing on real-world damage assessment and forensic investigation techniques.

How Does RECONSTRUCT Work?

1. Case Study-Based Learning: Six real-life structural failure cases will be documented and analyzed, allowing students to investigate the causes of damage, structural vulnerabilities, and failure mechanisms.
2. Gamification & Digital Innovation: The course integrates virtual learning environments, interactive simulations, and escape-room-based challenges to make forensic engineering education engaging and hands-on.
3. Pilot Course Development: A collaborative, blended-learning course will be developed, integrating case studies, multimedia tools, and interactive learning methods. The course will be tested through pilot training programs, engaging master's students, Ph.D. researchers, and professionals.
4. Industry & Research Collaboration: The project fosters cooperation between universities, industry professionals, and research institutions to create highly relevant, practical learning experiences and ensure the project’s long-term sustainability.

Join Us in Transforming Structural Engineering Education!

Whether you're a student, educator, researcher, or industry professional, RECONSTRUCT invites you to explore, engage, and contribute to the future of forensic structural engineering. Follow our updates, explore case studies, and join our upcoming courses! Stay connected for more details on how to participate!