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Problem-based learning (PBL) is an alternative to traditional lecture learning environment. In order to support teaching fundamentals of framing construction, PBL was used in a course in Missouri S&T. Handson learning experience for longer retention of desired knowledge was the main goal of this case study. Education of framing construction is a component of architectural engineering and variety materials are in use to assembly framing system in construction industry. Scaled model activity is targeted in PBL block and this activity directly dependent on material which is available, affordable and workable by the students. Balsa stick which has these properties is the choice reason of using timber framing system in PBL block. Due to the experiences in the world, it is recommended that using multiple educational models together as preparatory blocks including traditional lecture learning environment and PBL together. PBL block is supported by preparatory blocks such as construction site visits and mock-up assemblies. PBL activity narrowed through "the task project" on framing construction to be completed by the students in limited time. A survey was held in order to determine outcomes of the activities and PBL had positive impact on the traditional lecture learning environment in architectural engineering.

Techniques for residential energy monitoring are an emerging field that is currently drawing significant attention. This paper is a description of the current efforts to monitor and compare the performance of three solar powered homes built at Missouri University of Science and Technology. The homes are outfitted with an array of sensors and a data logger system to measure and record electricity production, system energy use, internal home temperature and humidity, hot water production, and exterior ambient conditions the houses are experiencing. Data is being collected to measure the performance of the houses, compare to energy modeling programs, design and develop cost effective sensor systems for energy monitoring, and produce a cost effective home control system.

This paper presents the findings from an undergraduate research project concerning the energy efficiency, consumption, and generation of a 1000 ft 2 (92.9 m 2 ) solar house. The results were compared to a home of similar size and layout, built using traditional construction methods. The solar house was modeled after the Chameleon House: Missouri University of Science and Technology's 2013 entry in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon. The efficiency of the design was analyzed using Energy-10 Version 1.8 software. For this comparison, a fictional American couple was created and a breakdown of their energy-use habits was recorded to accurately depict the magnitude of energy consumption. A 71% energy savings was forecasted using the Energy-10 software through the incorporation of various energy-conserving strategies in the home's design. In addition, if a 9.1 kW photovoltaic array is also installed on a home of this size, it is possible to fully offset the energy consumption of the home. The forecasted energy usage and production detailed in this report shall be used for analyzing the integrity of the design of the Chameleon House as well as future solar houses constructed by the Missouri S&T Solar House Team.

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