The student will learn about the key material properties, behaviour and performance of aggregates, concrete, wood, metals, bituminous materials and polymers which are important to their successful application in civil engineering works.

1. Describe the constituent materials in concrete and evaluate how their properties influence the behaviour and performance of the resulting concrete
2. Specify and design concrete mixes for typical applications and perform quality assurance testing on the concrete in the fresh and hardened state.
3. Describe types, production methods, properties and performance of metals, timber, bituminous materials and polymers
4. Perform as a team member in the execution, compilation and analysis of laboratory experiments
5. Compile and report, in both written and oral form, the results and conclusions of laboratory work

Taylors theorem, Lagrange multipliers, discrete Fourier transforms, z-transforms, vector algebra.

1. Approximate functions with polynomials in one and several variables using Taylors Theorem
2. Apply Lagrange Multiples to find the maximumand minimum of functions of several variables

3. Find the discreteFourier transform of a signal

4. Solve difference equations using the z-transform

5. Compute area, volume and surface Integrals using polar, cylindrical and spherical coordinates.

This module introduces the learner to structural and stress analysis for statically determined structural elements. It also explores how structural elements deform under load.

1. Analyse the reactions, shear forces and bending moments in statically determinate beams and predict the deflected shapes of beams
2. Derive and manipulate the fundamental formulae for elements subject to axial load
3. Derive and manipulate the fundamental formula to determine the stress for an element subject to bending
4. Derive and manipulate the fundamental formula to determine the stress for an element subject to shear
5. Derive and manipulate the fundamental formulae to determine the state of stress and angle of twist of elements subject to torsional loading
6. Perform laboratory practicals, interpret results and report findings.

The student will be able to identify, derive and manipulate the theoretical concepts which underlie basic fluid properties.

1. Define ,deriveandmanipulate the concepts of pressure, hydrostatic and buoyancy. Apply principles to solving problems involving same.
2. Derive and manipulate and apply the theoretical concepts which underlie basic fluid properties
3. Define ,derive andmanipulate the concepts of fluid flow using the principles defined in the basic flow equations. Apply principles to solving problems involving same.
4. Uses standard hydraulic engineering equipment to perform experiments in teams, observe and record data and experimental evidence.
5. Compile and report in a clear concise manner the findings and results of laboratory experiment.

Upon successful completion of this module the learner shall be able to identify and describe the main sources of water pollution and wastewater, the principal processes relating to wastewater and drinking water treatment, the fundamentals of the treatment and management of wastewater and water sludge. The learner shall also be able to appraise the principles and technologies associated with renewable energy systems, sustainable engineering and building, and building certification.

1. Identify and describe the main sources of water pollution from a range of activities including wastewater treatment effluent, industrial and agricultural discharges, and natural origins.
2. Define the main types and characteristics of wastewater and wastewater collection and treatment systems, and raw water abstraction, treatment and public supply systems.

3. Determine the principal processes for drinking water and wastewater treatment plants and the treatment and management of water and wastewater sludge.
4. Appraisethe principles and application of technologies for the production of renewable energy and sustainability in relation to engineering and building planning, design, and practice.

5. Perform in teams, and individually report the findings of, fundamental tests and analyses of water and wastewater samples to determine water quality and pollution characteristics, water and wastewater treatment parameters, site visits, and case studies of renewable energy and sustainable engineering technologies.

The learner will gain an understanding of how to use basic surveying equipment to carry out topographical surveys and set out work. The learner will also know how to produce site survey plans, site layout plans and sectional drawings for construction projects. Also covered are computations of area and volumes for sites and earthworks.

1. apply fundamental surveying calculations, read plans and scale off drawings.

2. operate an automatic level to carry out levelling surveys and control vertical in building set out.

3. produce a topographical site survey planusing a total station and 3D BIM compatible software

4. produce sectional profile drawingsof ground using draftingsoftware.

5. calculate areas and volumes of sites and construction project earthworks.

Develop previously acquired surveying techniques to a more advanced level. The emphasis is on the development of skills in advanced surveying techniques and equipment. Production of site layout drawings. Data will be collected in the field using total stations and GPS instruments, downloaded and processed using BIM compatible 3D software. Instruments will be used for setting out proposed works.

1. Operate total stations and GPS instruments for surveying and setting out purposes on site.

2. UseBIM compatible 3D software for site survey ans layout plans, sections, grading analysis, road corridor design.

3. Carry out computations for coordinate calculation, heights using total stations and horizontal curves.

4. Understand uses of GISand file types forconstruction and civil works projects.

5. Know how to set out works for construction and civilworks

6. Read and produce Mass Haul diagrams for earthworks planning

This module introduces the learner to the techniques used in the control and construction of civil and building projects including resource procurement, the tendering process, contracts and bills of quantities. The standard forms of contract used in Ireland together with the GCCC contracts are reviewed. The various site personnel are defined and scheduling and resource management techniques are introduced. Safety, risk assessment and management techniques are reviewed and analysed.

1. Define the personnel within the construction industry

2. Identify and analysethe various types of contract and methods of measurement used in the Civil Engineering industry
3. Understand graphical representations of Civil Engineering programmes to show time, cost and quality criteria
4. Identify and describe the duties of the various parties under current Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Legislation.
5. Apply the processes of Project Management and its applications in a Civil Engineering Context.

This module studies the state of stress in structural elements resulting from combined loading and examines stress and strain transformation. The fundamental equations governing beam and strut deflections are developed. Unsymmetrical bending is also addressed.

1. Formulate equations governing the unsymmetric bending of beams and analyse the state of stress caused by combined loadings

2. Transform stress and formulate equations for the analysis of principal stresses and maximum shear stress
3. Formulate and apply equations for the analysis of plane strain and investigate failure criteria
4. Examine the moment-curvature relationship and determine the equation of the elastic curve for beam bending
5. Formulate the fundamental equations defining the buckling of ideal struts
6. Perform laboratory experiments, interpret results and report findings

The student will be able to define and manipulate the theoretical concepts which underlie basic fluid properties.

1. Define derieve and quantify and formulate the concepts of fluid flow using the principles defined in the basic flow equations. Apply principles to solving problems involving same
2. Define, quantify and formulate the concepts of two dimensional fluid flow. Apply principles to solving problems involving same.
3. Derive , quantify and formulate problems involving turbomachinary. Apply principles to solving problems involving same.
4. Uses standard hydraulic engineering equipment to perform experiments in teams, observe and record data and experimental evidence.
5. Compile and report in a clear concise manner the findings and results of laboratory experiment.

A geometric approach to vectors, matrices and vector fields and their applications to forces and velocities in three dimensions.

1. Find the scalar and cross product of vectors with applications includingthe projection of vectors, angles, areas, volumes and angular velocity

2. Find the vector equations of lines and planes in three dimensions

3. Determine the linear independence of vectors with geometric interpretation

4. Find linear transformations and isometriesas matrix operations includingrotation and reflection. Findeigenvalues and eigenvectors

5. Calculate the radial and tangential components of rotating systems

6. Calculatethe gradient of a scalar field and the divergence and curl of a vector field

This module is an introduction to Soil Mechanics and Geology, assuming no prior knowledge of the subject. The student starts with the formation and origin of rocks and the processes which result in the formation of soil before learning how these processes influence soil behaviour due to external loading or the flow of fluid through the soil.

1. Identify and classify soils and rocks and calculate their phase relations. Describe how rock and rock structures are formed and weathered.
2. Compute coefficients of permeability from standard laboratory tests and compute critical hydraulic gradients.
3. Calculate total stress, effective stress and porewater pressure and evaluate the shear strength parameters of the soil in drained and undrained conditions. Calculate lateral earth pressures.
4. Estimate one-dimensional settlements in soils.
5. Use standard laboratory equipment and perform as a team member in the execution, compilation, analysis and interpretation of laboratory experiments
6. Compile and report, in both written and oral form, using word and excel, the results and conclusions of laboratory work

Upon successful completion of this module the learner shall be able to define and interpret the scientific and engineering concepts as they relate to wastewater and water treatment, and sludge treatment and disposal. They shall also be able to evaluate the characteristics and design of sustainable treatment systems that meet appropriate economic, environmental and regulatory requirements.

1. Define and interpret the scientific principles and engineering concepts as they relate to wastewater, raw waterand sludge from a range of domestic, industrial and commercial sources

2. Formulate and evaluate the process options to control water pollution,to remove contaminants from wastewater, to provide clean drinking and industrial water forsupply systems and render sludge suitablefor treatment and disposalto the environment.

3. Designsystems that providefor efficient removal ofcontaminants from raw water for the supply of drinking water, treatment of raw wastewater prior todischargeto water bodies, and water and wastewater sludge managementwithin a sustainable framework.

4. Perform, observe and report critically on a range of laboratory experimental tests and process design software for raw and treated water, wastewater and sludge samples, observing and recording data andexperimental evidence in teams, andrecognise and advise on any limitations or shortcomings associated with the interpretation of laboratory and processdesign data.

5. Design, test and report on specific process design projects and field studies relating to water, wastewater or sludge treatment systems

The module looks at permeability, soil strength, consolidation and lateral earth pressures in a soil mas.

1. Define, quantify and formulate the concept of effective stress in geotechnical engineering problem.

2. Use graphical and computational techniques to determine seepage quantities and pore pressures and to assess the stability of soil masses subjected to seepage forces .

3. Analyse the strength characteristics of saturated soil.

4. Formulate and apply consolidation theory to estimate settlement rates and amounts .

5. Describe, formulate and implement critical state theory to model the behaviour of soi.

6. Use standard engineering laboratory equipment to perform experiments in teams, observe and record data and experimental evidence.

7. Design, implement and analysis experimental methods in the soil mechanics laboratory.

The student will be able to interpret requirements, carry out analyses and provide detailed design of water supply networks. The student will also be able to define, quantify and formulate the concepts of two-dimensional fluid flow and apply principles to solving problems involving same. The student will analyse and solve various design problems involving turbo-machinery.

1. Understand the development of flow theory. Define, quantify and formulate the concepts of surface roughness and boundary layer theory. Analyse and solve various water network analysis problems
2. Analyse and solve various water network analysis problems using Hardy-Cross and Nodal methods.
3. Define , quantify and formulate the concepts of the Buckingham Phi theory and dimensional analysis . Apply principles to solving problems involving the design of pumps and turbines.
4. Recognise and advice on any limitations or shortcomings associated with the interpretations of laboratory and field test data.
5. Interpret requirement, carry out analyses and provide detailed design of water supply, surface water, foul sewer and SuDS attenuation systems.

Upon successful completion of this module the learner shall be able to perform and organise traffic surveys and highway assessments, design and evaluate highway alignments, cross-sections and junctions, and determine the characteristics of highway pavements and road drainage systems.

1. Describe the roles and responsibilities of Irish roads authorities, the road classification system, and the requirements for themanagement and operation of the public road network.

2. Evaluate, analyse and design geometric road alignments, road junctions and road crosssectional elements in accordance with relevant Irish and European geometric design standards and guidelines.
3. Describe and specify the material and technical requirements for flexible and rigid highway pavements and road drainage systems.

4. Perform in teams and describe traffic surveys and the collection and analysis of road traffic, sustainable transport,and topographic data.

5. Describe, compile and report on the findings of traffic surveying and highway design practical work using both oral and written communication techniques.

This module explores inelastic deformations and residual stress. The behaviour of complex elements under torsion and shear loading, and the buckling of struts under eccentric and lateral loads are addressed. This module also provides an introduction to the analysis of statically indeterminate beams

1. Develop and apply equations to evaluate inelastic stress
2. Analyse non-circular members under torsional loading and formulate equations to evaluate shear flow and to locatethe shear centre.

3. Formulate equations using virtual work to determine slopes and deflections in statically determinate structures

4. Analyse statically indeterminate beams by the method of integration

5. Formulate equations to analyse struts under eccentric and lateral loading

6. Perform laboratory experiments, interpret results and report findings.

This module explains the concepts and principles underpinning the analysis and design of elements in structural steelwork.

1. Recognise the fundamental principles on which structural design codes are based and appreciate their limitations
2. Evaluate actions on structures and assess how forces are transferred within a structure
3. Analyse and design steel struts, ties, beams, columns and connections in \”simple\” construction
4. Compile and report in a clear and concise manner structural design calculations
5. Prepare and present steelwork fabrication drawings

Apply statistical and probability techniques to present and analyse data. Use numerical techniques to find approximate solutions.

This module will be approximately 8 weeks in duration due to work placement.

1. Compute the mean, median, mode, range, interquartile range, standard deviation and varianceof data

2. Calculate the probability of simple events and the probability associated with normal andbinomialdistributions

3. Use sampling techniquesto form confidence intervals and carry out hypothesis tests

4. Plota mean and range control chart and use it to test for statistical control

5. Find correlation coefficients and regression equations

6. Construct a function to fit data points using interpolation and extrapolation.

7. Approximate the area under a curve

8. Find numerical solutions of equations using the Newton-Raphsonmethod

This module looks at geology, the formation of soils, soil classification and site investigations.

This module is designed to be delivered over 8 teaching weeks to facilitate students going on work placement.

1. Describe the composition of the earth, classify and identify the different types of soils and rocks and describe their formation.

2. Describe the engineering significance of the weathering process, folds, faults and joints in rock.

3. Classify soils based on phase relationships, particle size distribution and Atterberg limits .

4. Create a specification for, and evaluate the findings of, a site investigations.

5. Use standard engineering laboratory equipment to perform experiments in teams, observe and record data and experimental evidence.

This module distinguishes between statically determinate and statically indeterminate structural systems and highlights the implication's indeterminacy has for structural analysis. The analysis of statically determinate structures for moving loads is also investigated. Techniques to analyse statically indeterminate structures are introduced.

This module is designed to be delivered over 8 teaching weeks to facilitate students going on work placement.

1. Model structural forms and distinguish between statically determinate and statically indeterminate structural systems
2. Analyse cables for concentrated and distributed loads

3. Analyse statically determinate structures for moving loads
4. Calculate deflections and slopes in statically determinate structures
5. Determine reactions, shear forces and bending moments for statically indeterminate structures
6. Performlaboratory experiments, interpret results and report findings

This module explains the concepts and principles underpinning the analysis and design of elements in reinforced concrete.

This module is designed to be delivered over 8 teaching weeks to facilitate students going on work placement.

1. Formulate the theoretical concepts underpinning the limit state design of structural elements in reinforced concrete, distinguishing between serviceability limit state and ultimate limit state requirements.

2. Appreciate the design process from conceptual design to detail design.

3. Analyse and design beam, slab, column and foundation elements in reinforced concrete
4. Compile and present reinforced concrete analysis and design calculations in a logical, clear and professional manner
5. Prepare and present reinforced concrete detail drawings and bar schedules

This module will introduce the learner to the world of the professional civil engineer. It provides the learner with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the programme in an appropriate work-place setting. Students on this programme may be placed with civil engineering consultants, contractors, local authorities etc. While on work placement learners will be required to participate in a range of engineering projects and contribute significantly to the various project activities and outputs. The objective of the work placement is to foster the following key skills; interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, teamwork, practical skills, self-confidence and self-reliance, commercial awareness and maturity.

Where it is not possible to secure a work placement for a learner, an alternative of an industry related project will be available addressing the same learning outcomes.

1. Apply knowledge and practical skills gained through theacademic programmeto the practice of civil engineering

2. Work and contribute effectively as part of an engineering team

3. Develop and enhance communication and interpersonal skills through working as part of a team

4. Produce a reflective journal on a weekly basis outlining the learning and experience gained during the work placement

The learner will be able to collect, analyse and present traffic and transport data, evaluate and develop transport demand models, determine how to assess future transport needs for all users, formulate sustainable transport policies and measures, and produce transport and traffic assessments for development planning and management purposes. The learner shall also have knowledge of light and heavy rail transport infrastructure and facilities.

1. Plan, manage and expedite group traffic and transport surveys and determine the sampling, collection and analysis of traffic and topographic data for transportation planning, traffic management, sustainable travel and land transport scheme projects.

2. Describe, analyse and formulate traffic planning and demand models and methodologies fortransportation system planning anddesign to meet the future needs of all users.

3. Determine the criteria and methodologies for the promotion, planning and development of sustainable travel modes and infrastructure.

4. Evaluate the requirements for transportation and traffic assessments fordevelopment plans and development management for the upgrading of existing transport systems to provide moreefficient and sustainable operation inboth urban and rural areas.

5. Determine the characteristics and associated infrastructureof light and heavy rail and connected and autonomous vehicle modes of transport and their role as components of integrated transportation networks.

The student will be able to derive and apply solutions from a knowledge of hydraulics, science, engineering science and mathematics. The student will also design a system or structure to meet the specific needs resulting from the analysis and interpretation of data, and display the ability to identify, formulate, analyse and solve engineering type problems.

1. Analyse and predict catchment runoff and river design discharges by manipulating hydrographs and the storage equation.
2. Define, quantify and formulate the concepts of the groundwater flow. Apply principles to solving problems involving water abstraction and groundwater contamination.
3. Analyse and interpret flow behaviour in open channels, utilise data to design hydraulic structures and river channels and predict subsequent flow behaviour.
4. Define, quantify and formulate the concepts of wave theory. Apply principles to solving problems involving wave prediction and behaviour.
5. Design a system or structure to meet the specific needs resulting from the analyses and interpretation of data.
6. Derive and apply solutions from a knowledge of hydraulics, sciences engineering science and mathematics.
7. Display the ability to identify, formulate, analyse and solve engineering type problems.
8. Recognise and advice on any limitations or shortcomings associated with the interpretations of laboratory and field test data.

This module requires the learner to identify and formulate design concepts and evaluate traditional and sustainable construction options for the refurbishment of existing buildings and/or the design of new buildings.

1. Analyse and design reinforced concrete framed structures.
2. Analyse and design reinforced concrete slabs, columns, cantilever retaining wallsand pilecaps.

3. Select an appropriate structural form, defend design decisions and present findings both orally and in written form.
4. Survey, analyse and design new buildings and/or the refurbishment of existing buildings.

5. Collaborate with others in the development of solutions to design problems

Formulate a scientific approach to the programming and organisation of construction projects. Apply the relevant provisions of safety legislation in the construction and civil engineering industries. Evaluate and use relevant computer software for the above functions. Evaluate the various types of contract available and asses the risk transfer in each.

1. Select and evaluate the appropriate forms of contract for risk allocation in the standard forms of contract
2. Discriminate and appraise dispute resolution methods used in the construction industry
3. Appraise the financial statements involved in company operation
4. Formulate a scientific approach to theprogramming and organisation ofconstruction projects.
5. Appraise the Project Management and Appraisal Guidelines of Transport Infrastructure Ireland

This module further develops the material covered in Structural Analysis 302H to include the analysis of structural systems using the flexibility and stiffness methods. The plastic design of beam/frames and slabs is considered. An introduction to structural dynamics is also provided

1. Formulate and apply flexibility methods for the analysis of statically indeterminate elastic structural systems
2. Derive the structure stiffness matrix and use it to analyse trusses, beams and frames
3. Analyse statically indeterminate structures for moving loads
4. Formulate and apply appropriate methods for the plastic analysis of structural systems
5. Compute the dynamic response for simple dynamic loads
6. Perform laboratory experiments, interpret results and report findings

Upon successful completion of this module the learner shall be able to apply the basic scientific and engineering concepts to solve problems in a sustainable manner for environmental projects relating to air and noise pollution, renewable energy, and solid waste treatment and management.

1. Define and interpret the scientific, engineering and economic concepts as they relate to air and noise pollution, renewable energy, and solid waste treatment and management
2. Apply scientific, engineering and mathematical techniques to the evaluation of environmental engineering problems including the control of air and noise pollution, solid waste reduction, treatment and disposal, and production of renewable and sustainable energy.
3. Identify and describe the physical, chemical and biological properties and characteristics of emissions to the atmosphere from
mobile and static sources, including the environmental and health impacts, anddetermine the fate and concentration of emission plumes.

4. Evaluate environmental noise levels and interpret limits and methods of controlling noise from construction, transport, industrial and municipal sources, including the use of noise mapping and production of noise action plans.
5. Determine the quantity, composition, and properties of municipal solid waste generated from household, commercial andindustrial sources,and assess methods for the prevention, minimisation, recovery and recycling of municipal solid waste to meet relevantEU and Irish standards and legislation, and select and design efficient and sustainable solid waste treatment and managementfacilities.

6. Assess the potential of sustainable renewable energy (RE) sources, including wind, solar, tidal, wave, hydroelectric and biofuel and determine the potential power output, siting requirements, installation, environmental impact and design considerations of RE systems.

This module examines the environmental impact and economic implications of highway route options and explores components of highway design such the determination of route capacity, the design of intersections and the structural design of pavements. Pavement maintenance is also addressed.

1. Apply scientific, engineering and mathematical techniques to the evaluation of rural highway capacity with respect to space mean speed, traffic density and traffic flow/capacity.
2. Identify and apply appropriate environmental and economicassessment techniques for the appraisal of highway projects.

3. Design highwayintersections and evaluate their operational characteristics.

4. Classify andevaluate the behaviour/properties of materials and identify and apply appropriatemethodologies for the structural design and rehabilitation of road pavements, both flexible and rigid.

5. Perform in teams in the design and assessment of intersections.

This module looks at design in geotechnical engineering, including the design of foundations, retaining structures, basements and piles. Ground improvement and earthworks is also examined.

1. Determine the forces, moments and pressure distributions on gravity and cantilever retaining structures
2. Design shallow and deep foundation systems
3. Determine the stability of slopes using translational and rotational analysis techniques
4. Design ground improvement techniques for embankments on soft soil
5. Determine the stress distribution in a soil mass
6. Evaluate and synthesise data from laboratory and field testing to determine parameters for use in geotechnical design
7. Apply the principles of Eurocode 7 (EN 1997) to the design of geotechnical engineering problems

This module requires the learner to identify and formulate design concepts and evaluate traditional and sustainable construction options for the refurbishment of existing buildings and/or the design of new buildings.

This module is a direct continuation of the learning accomplished in the module Structural Design 401H.

1. Analyse and design structural steelwork structures.
2. Analyse and design composite structural steelwork structures.
3. Analyse and design reinforced concrete andprestressed concrete structures.
4. Selectan approrpiatescheme designfor planning, organising and implementing a detailed design solution as part of a design team.
5. Plan, organise and prepare appropriate detailed general arrangement, reinforced concrete and structural steelwork drawings as part of a design team.

The module will introduce the students to the salient and important areas of law that operate in the field of civil engineering and civil engineering projects. The fundamental areas of both contractual and tortious liability are introduced and expanded further to include the law relating to construction and engineering projects. Key legislative provisions that affect the construction industry is also considered. It is intended that this module will provide students with sufficient legal knowledge to identify legal problems and create an awareness of where legal expertise may need to be sought.

1. Demonstrate awareness and understanding of the Irish Legal System and the sources of law relevant to the construction industry.

2. Examine and assess theimportant legal areas of both the law of contract and the law of tort and critically assesshow bothimpact onthe construction/engineering process.

3. Identify and critically assess the role, duty of care, responsibility and liability of the Civil Engineer includingthe evaluationof the relevant codes of conducts and overriding ethical considerations.

4. Critically assess Health and Safety Legislation as it applies to the construction industry including the role, obligations and responsibilities of key personnel established under such legislation

5. Demonstrate an applied knowledge and understanding of the salient areas of law relating to Civil Engineering Projectsand to formulate legal advice/opinion based on the thorough examination of the facts and the application of legal concepts.

Upon successful completion of this module, the learner shall be able to research a particular aspect of civil engineering, analyse from first principles a particular problem or application relating to civil engineering, and design and execute an experimental study, case study, design study, computer program or analysis method to investigate a civil engineering problem. They will be able to gather and interpret appropriate data, and, where appropriate, develop mathematical models, and compare data gathered during the project with values quoted in the technical literature. They will be able to research a particular topic through individual work, whilst interacting with a supervisor, seeking advice, and taking and implementing instructions. They will also be able to compile and report and present in a clear and concise manner within a professional and technical format.

1. Research the underlying science and engineering behind a particular aspect of civil engineering
2. Analyse from first principles a particular problem or application relating to civil engineering
3. Design and execute an experimental study, case study, design study, computer program or analysis method to investigate a civil engineering problem
4. Gather and interpret appropriate data from an experimental study, case study, design study, computer program or analysis method, and where appropriate develop mathematical models
5. Compare data gathered during the project with values quoted in the technical literature
6. Identify the impacts of a course of action on the environment and community, with due reference to sustainability
7. Research a particular topic in civil engineering, through individual work, while interacting with a supervisor
8. Use search engines, technical databases and engineering journals to identify information on a particular aspect of civil engineering
9. Work and report directly to a supervisor, seek advice, and take and implement instructions
10. Compile and report in a clear and concise manner a review of relevant literature, the findings and results of laboratory work, case studies, surveys and design studies