Formation of critical thinking related to the energetic efficiency of applied physics processes of civil engineering works

Abstract

Current problems associated to contamination and climate change claim for urgent solutions to make real a sustainable development of modern societies. To answer that call, the efficiency of applied physics processes must be continuously evaluated. Particularly, engineering programs are called to strengthen the training offer related to basic and applied physics sciences considering energetic transformation and transferring processes. In the civil engineering field, design, construction, functioning, and final disposition of buildings can be understood as applied physics processes. This work proposes an approach for defining and studying possible variables related to energetic processes and their mutual relationship. Such variables must be able to describe the processes of energetic changes which can occur during construction of civil works. To do so, qualitative analysis of mathematic expressions is done to promote the formation of abstract mental connections made of sensitivity and logical thinking. The methodology is based on four moments: (a) students´ brainstorming related to a particular issue, (b) identification of main topics related to energy transformation, (c) variable operationalization, (d) proposal of mathematical expressions. This proposal is expected to facilitate the construction of concepts related to sustainable development and help students to trust themselves when taking well thought out risks.