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    Moodle is an open-source Learning Management System (LMS) that provides educators with the tools and features to create and manage online courses. It allows educators to organize course materials, create quizzes and assignments, host discussion forums, and track student progress. Moodle is highly flexible and can be customized to meet the specific needs of different institutions and learning environments.

    Moodle supports both synchronous and asynchronous learning environments, enabling educators to host live webinars, video conferences, and chat sessions, as well as providing a variety of tools that support self-paced learning, including videos, interactive quizzes, and discussion forums. The platform also integrates with other tools and systems, such as Google Apps and plagiarism detection software, to provide a seamless learning experience.

    Moodle is widely used in educational institutions, including universities, K-12 schools, and corporate training programs. It is well-suited to online and blended learning environments and distance education programs. Additionally, Moodle's accessibility features make it a popular choice for learners with disabilities, ensuring that courses are inclusive and accessible to all learners.

    The Moodle community is an active group of users, developers, and educators who contribute to the platform's development and improvement. The community provides support, resources, and documentation for users, as well as a forum for sharing ideas and best practices. Moodle releases regular updates and improvements, ensuring that the platform remains up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices.

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Available courses

1. Course Description

This course provides trainees with knowledge and practical skills in the identification, selection, testing, and application of various construction materials. It emphasizes the properties, sources, handling, and suitability of materials used in building and civil engineering works.


2. Course Objectives

By the end of this course, the trainee should be able to:

  1. Identify various types of construction materials.

  2. Explain the properties and uses of different materials.

  3. Conduct simple field and laboratory tests on construction materials.

  4. Select appropriate materials for specific construction purposes.

  5. Apply proper handling, storage, and safety procedures.


3. Course Content Outline

Unit Topic Subtopics / Key Concepts
1 Introduction to Construction Materials Definition, classification, sources, importance, selection criteria
2 Soils and Aggregates Types of soils, soil classification, aggregates (fine & coarse), testing, grading, and applications
3 Cement and Lime Types of cement, composition, properties, hydration, storage, lime production, uses
4 Concrete Technology Constituents of concrete, mix ratios, batching, mixing, curing, testing (slump test, compressive strength)
5 Bricks, Blocks, and Tiles Manufacturing process, types, properties, quality tests, uses
6 Timber and Wood Products Types of wood, properties, defects, seasoning, preservation, uses
7 Metals in Construction Types (ferrous and non-ferrous), properties, uses, protection against corrosion
8 Bituminous Materials Types, properties, applications in roads and waterproofing
9 Paints and Finishing Materials Types, components, application methods, surface preparation
10 Sustainability and Environmental Considerations Green building materials, waste reduction, recycling in construction

4. Teaching and Learning Methods

  • Lectures and demonstrations

  • Field visits (quarries, factories, construction sites)

  • Practical sessions in materials lab

  • Group discussions and presentations

  • Use of multimedia and videos


5. Learning Resources

  • Samples of materials (cement, aggregates, bricks, metals, timber, etc.)

  • Construction materials laboratory

  • Standards (KEBS, ASTM, BS)

  • Reference books and manuals


6. Assessment Methods

Assessment Type Weight (%)
Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs) 20%
Practical Work / Lab Reports 30%
Final Theory Examination 30%
Project / Field Assignment 20%

This course introduces learners to the integration of technology in teaching and learning. It covers multimedia tools, learning management systems (LMS), and online collaboration platforms. Learners will gain practical skills in using digital resources to enhance teaching and assessment.

Course Facilitators


Course Objectives

By the end of the course, learners should be able to:

  1. Define and explain the role of educational technology in modern classrooms.
  2. Apply multimedia tools to improve learner engagement.
  3. Navigate and use a learning management system (LMS) effectively.
  4. Use online collaboration tools to enhance group learning.
  5. Design digital assessments and upload resources for learners.


Site announcements

Discussion Topic: Significance of Construction Materials in Building Technology

by steve simiyu -

Significance of Construction Materials in Building Technology

Construction materials are fundamental components in the building industry. The selection, testing, and application of these materials determine the strength, durability, cost-effectiveness, and overall performance of a structure. Understanding the properties of materials helps in ensuring safety, sustainability, and efficiency in construction work.

Guiding Questions:

  1. Discuss the major factors that influence the selection of construction materials for a given project.

  2. Explain how the physical and mechanical properties of materials affect the stability and durability of structures.

  3. Evaluate the role of modern and sustainable materials in promoting environmental conservation in the construction industry.


Course categories