Discovery-enriched spreadsheet-based resources repository (DSRR) for construction students

Abstract

Spreadsheet, with the use of the programming language Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), is a useful tool in various areas of the construction industry. The project aims to facilitate knowledge discovery of construction students and encourage innovation for their spreadsheet-based development works for solving problems in real-life contexts. The proposed discovery-enriched student-contributed spreadsheet repository project is to establish an e-learning platform to enable students search and retrieve practical information and tools for developing their own spreadsheets with reference to a specific construction situation. The tested spreadsheets developed by students, together with user manuals, will be systematically stored in the repository. This does not only gradually develop a sustainable database of student-contributed development works including prefabricated spreadsheet components and spread-based analysis tools, but also provide a means of ownership that encourages students' independent learning and creative thinking. These valuable resources which have never been stored in any easy-to-share format in the past can therefore be fully utilized, via the proposed e-learning platform, in enhancing students' learning and knowledge discovery.