Visual Programming Algorithms As An Educational Resource For Civil Engineering

Abstract

Visual programming offers a robust framework for bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications in engineering education. Providing accurate virtual representations of physical systems enhances students' understanding of complex phenomena. This article studies this potential in structural analysis by applying visual programming as an educational tool. A parametric workflow in Dynamo is employed to replicate the structural behavior of a beam within a Building Information Model (BIM). This approach allows students to visualize and analyze structural performance, fostering a deeper connection between classroom theory and practical experimentation. The educational impact of this tool was evaluated through a survey conducted in a structural analysis course at the University of La Serena (Chile), demonstrating its effectiveness in improving students' understanding and engagement with modern engineering practices.