A user-oriented web-based multimedia programme for measuring building services engineering works

It has been noted that, with the advance in multimedia and information technology, many traditional classroom-based teaching activities have migrated on-line. However, without a proper design framework, a lot of these programmes are just on-line information disseminators. This paper describes a web-based self-learning measurement of building services engineering work programme (MBS) that features the characteristics of three well-established web-based design paradigms: objectivism, cognitivism and constructivism. The programme covers the measurement principles of four of the most commonly installed building services engineering works: electrical installation; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC); fire services; and plumbing and drainage installations. In addition to the basic contents or measurement rules, the programme is also equipped with a user guide, worked examples, a discussion forum and on-line self-assessments. An evaluation of the effectiveness of the MBS as a learning platform is also provided. © 2007 TEMPUS Publications.