Paragraph #1

Your name;
Your major and year (freshman, sophomore, etc);
Your career goals;
The reason you are taking this course;

Paragraph #2

Why is it important for you as a fire science student to know about building construction?
Based on your career goals (the job you are in or desire to be in), what is the most important information to know about building construction in that profession and why?
Your experience/knowledge of building construction;
And what you expect to get out of this class.

In addition reply to the postings of a minimum of two students.

What do you have in common?
Do you agree with their reasoning regarding the importance of a knowledge of building construction?
Make them aware of at least two assignments in the course syllabus that you think are very important for them to remember. Include the name of the assignment and the due date.
Discussion A

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer based tool being used extensively to solve various engineering problems involving the use of spatial data. GIS technology provides capabilities to solve problems, involving creation and management of data, integration of information and visualization. Can this tool be used in the fire service?

In your response discussion post list the following:

Paragraph #1 – A description of GIS Technology. What is it? How does it work?

Paragraph #2 – List and describe one way that you feel GIS technology can be used in the fire service. Explain how its use would enhance fire department operations.

At the end of this post include the citation for the source where you obtained the information.

Discussion B

A load is a force that places stress on a building and if excessive or improperly applied, may cause structural failure.

In your response discussion post list the following:

Paragraph #1 – Select one of the type of loads discussed in Chapter 2 of the text. Conduct research on the type of load from an outside source (other than the text). In this paragraph provide a definition of the load and information about it from the research.

Paragraph #2 – Give an example of how the type of load is applied in a building and explain how an understanding of the load and how it is applied would assist in identifying the potential for collapse in a building.

*At the end of this post include the citation for the source where you obtained the information.

In your response to other students:

Discussion A – Have you any experience with GIS? Where else might GIS be used in the fire service?

Discussion B – Is their explanation of the type of load correct? Add to the discussion by providing additional examples of the type of load in a building.