Interactive models used in Civil Engineering education based on virtual reality technology

This paper describes the application of virtual reality technology on the development of didactic models related to the construction activity and to the design of roofs. The models, showing construction processes, allow the visualization of the physical progression of the work following a planned construction sequence, the observation of details of the form of every component of the works and carry the study of the type and method of operation of the equipment applied in the construction. The roof model supports student to draw up plan drawings of roofs and the correspondent 3D model, tasks which relies on an understanding of the three-dimensional nature of the respective constructive process. The models present distinct advantage as educational aids in first-degree courses in Civil Engineering. The use of Virtual Reality techniques in the development of educational applications brings new perspectives to the teaching of subjects related to the field of civil construction.