Hands-On Structural Engineering Workshop

On November 22, 2025, the Civil Engineering Department at Tishk International University organized an engaging “Popsicle Stick Bridge Challenge” for first-year students. Approximately 30 students participated in this technical workshop designed to introduce fundamental engineering concepts through practical application.

Educational Objectives and Time-Constrained Design

The event aimed to achieve specific educational outcomes through structured constraints:

Primary Learning Objectives:

  • Introduction to basic structural concepts in civil engineering

  • Development of rapid problem-solving skills under time pressure

  • Application of engineering logic in practical design scenarios

  • Collaborative teamwork in technical problem-solving contexts

  • Resource management within defined material limitations

Challenge Parameters:

  • Strict 45-minute time limit for complete design and construction

  • Material restrictions using only provided popsicle sticks and adhesive

  • Structural requirements for functional bridge design

  • Collaborative approach encouraging team-based problem solving

Focused Skill Development Through Constraints

The intentional constraints fostered specific engineering skill development:

Key Skill Areas Emphasized:

  • Quick thinking and decision-making under time pressure

  • Efficient resource management with limited materials

  • Practical construction technique application

  • Structural optimization within defined parameters

  • Design efficiency balancing strength with material use

Structural Testing and Performance Evaluation

Following the construction phase, all bridges underwent systematic load testing:

Evaluation Components:

  • Load testing procedures to assess structural stability

  • Weight-bearing capacity measurement for performance comparison

  • Structural integrity evaluation under stress conditions

  • Design effectiveness analysis based on test results

  • Performance benchmarking among participant creations

Collaborative Learning and Professional Introduction

This activity provided the new civil engineering cohort with valuable experiential learning opportunities:

Student Development Outcomes:

  • Practical application of theoretical engineering concepts

  • Collaborative problem-solving in team environments

  • Introduction to structural design principles

  • Hands-on experience with material properties and limitations

  • Foundation building for future engineering coursework

The workshop successfully introduced first-year civil engineering students to core principles of their discipline while fostering teamwork, creativity, and practical problem-solving skills essential for their future professional development.

Keywords: Civil Engineering, Bridge Challenge, Structural Design, Hands-On Learning, Problem Solving, Student Workshop, Engineering Education, Collaborative Projects