Teaching Flexural Strength (Failure Modes) in Reinforced Concrete

Presented By: Royce Floyd, The University of Oklahoma Description: This presentation provides an overview of the theory behind flexural strength of reinforced concrete beams and design for different failure modes according to ACI 318-19. Focus is given to concepts that are appropriate for an undergraduate reinforced concrete course. The technical content critical to this topic is summarized and pedagogical techniques for presenting this content effectively are described. Examples of applying these pedagogical techniques in the classroom are provided with estimates of required preparation and classroom time. These examples include several models and illustrations that can be used in the classroom and a sample large-scale laboratory exercise illustrating the different possible flexural failure modes. Finally, lessons learned from the authors over many years of instruction at multiple institutions are provided regarding techniques that have worked well when teaching this topic in a typical undergraduate reinforced concrete course.