Technical Report Route - Information Pack · PDF fileoutput standards that have to be addressed by the candidate in their technical report. ... the following parts for each project:

Technical Report Route - Information Pack

| The Institution of Structural Engineers | Technical Report Route - Information Pack | 3

Technical Report Route - Information Pack

Contents

04 Introduction and procedures for applicants05 The technical report07 Timetable of applications08 The technical report submission process10 Example synopsis11 Output standards12 Key technical aspects considered to demonstrate Masters level Further Learning13 Resubmission and appeals procedures14 FAQs16 Membership department contact details Submission forms:17 Form TR/M19 Candidate checklist20 Assessor form

4 | The Institution of Structural Engineers | Technical Report Route - Information Pack

The UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC) defines the standards required for engineers to be registered with Engineering Council as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

In the regulations for registration, UK-SPEC states that the minimum academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer are to be an MEng degree (accredited to CEng level) or a BEng (Hons) degree (accredited to CEng level) plus either an approved Masters degree or “appropriate further learning to Masters level”. One of the acceptable types of appropriate further learning to Masters level identified in the UK-SPEC regulations for registration is a technical report. For the Technical Report Route, the Engineering Council states:

“Applicants whose career history indicates that they have sufficient engineering experience may be authorised to submit a technical report. This shall demonstrate that they have the engineering knowledge and understanding necessary to underpin the UK-SPEC competence standards for the applicant’s category of registration, to the same level as their peers who have followed the UK-SPEC exemplifying pathways. Its content must be technical; a pure management study is not acceptable. The scope of the report shall depend upon the applicant’s initial qualifications and any subsequent achievement.”

The submission of a technical report is intended to cover a wide range of applicants including those who have already qualified as Associate-Members of the Institution. In addition, applicants with ordinary degrees, non-accredited degrees, higher national diplomas or certificate qualifications and mature candidates without formal higher education qualifications may be able to submit a technical report in order to demonstrate that they have the engineering knowledge and understanding that is equivalent to Masters level. It is important to understand, however, that, in the first instance, some applicants may be better placed to aim for Associate-Membership of the Institution with a view to progressing to Chartered Membership as they gain more knowledge and experience. Further guidance on the routes to Associate-Membership is provided at www.istructe.org/membership/grades/Pages/Associate-Member.aspx

This document provides guidance for applicants seeking Chartered Membership and who intend to submit a technical report in lieu of an accredited MEng degree or equivalent. Two routes are available through the technical report process:

Route A: For applicants holding an accredited BEng (Hons) degree in civil and/or structural engineering or who are AMI-StructE holding an accredited degree for Incorporated Engineer or its equivalent.

Route B: For applicants not holding formal academic qualifications needed to apply for Chartered Membership through the conventional route.

This guidance document focuses on Route A. Further guidance on Route B is available on the Institution’s website www.istructe.org/membership/academic_qualifications/Pages/Technicalreportroute.aspx or may be obtained from the Membership Department (email: [email protected]).

Procedures for Route A applicants

It is important to stress the context of the following procedures: The Technical Report Route is intended to be undertaken by applicants with sufficient experience to proceed immediately to the Institution’s Professional Review Interview (PRI). It is assumed that all applicants will have already undertaken significant further learning beyond their degree studies and the requirements for their technical report will depend on both the initial degree level and the extent of any further academic and experience-based learning which has been undertaken towards Masters level.

Introduction and procedures for applicants


The technical report must demonstrate that the applicant has achieved the knowledge and understanding of structural engineering principles that would normally be expected of the holder of an MEng degree that has been accredited by the Institution to Chartered Membership level. The required levels of knowledge and understanding are exemplified by the output standards listed on page 11. The principal objective of the report is to demonstrate to two independent assessors that the candidate has achieved the three sets of output standards listed. Details of the assessment process are given on page 8.

Applicants submitting a technical report will normally have been engaged in structural engineering practise in a graduate engineer capacity for a sufficient number of years, and will be expected to have worked towards the required standards of the Institution’s Initial Professional Development (IPD) core objectives for Chartered Membership. Further details of the IPD requirements are available from the Institution’s website (www.istructe.org/membership/already_a_member/IPD/Pages/default.aspx) or may be obtained from the membership department ([email protected]).

Five of the thirteen core objectives are classified as “engineering” objectives and relate specifically to a number of structural engineering activities such as conceptual design, analysis and design of structural forms, specification of materials, and construction techniques. Most of these involve the application of scientific principles and the use of mathematical and computer models. There is, therefore, some overlap between the engineering core objectives and the output standards that have to be addressed by the candidate in their technical report. Although linked with Initial Professional Development, the submission of a Technical Report is a separate requirement from the Professional Review process.

The report should demonstrate particularly the candidate’s understanding of engineering principles and their ability to integrate in structural design and engineering practice their knowledge of mathematics, science and computer-based methods, and their ability to generate innovative and appropriate designs. To demonstrate that understanding, the report is expected to contain some discussion of the validity of the principles relating to the subject of the report. Candidates should, at the outset and through the report, ask themselves the questions: What are the basic principles to be discussed and how do I demonstrate my understanding of them? The report will be judged on the extent to which these questions have been successfully tackled and whether the applicant has a clear grasp of the principles of engineering science relating to the topic as would normally be expected of a graduate assessed at Masters level.

For Route A candidates, the technical report should be a 3,000 to 5,000 word coherent document drawn from typically two substantial projects on which the candidate has been engaged in a responsible capacity. Appendices must not exceed thirty pages.

The report should be written in English and word processed on A4 paper. A reference list should be provided, and the text should be illustrated by diagrams. The report should be well structured and consistent with good practice for technical papers with regard to such matters as section headings, figures, equations, references, acknowledgements, and appendices. The text should be as simple and concise as possible, consistent with arguments being easily understood, thereby in itself demonstrating one key skill associated with Masters level learning.

Three copies of the report, each securely bound in a separate folder, should be sent to the membership department of the Institution with a signed declaration clarifying exactly which parts of the submission are the candidate’s own contribution. The candidate will also need to provide the checklist for output standards and the technical report assessment fee to be submitted at main submission stage. (for current fees please refer to the webpage: www.istructe.org/membership/academic_qualifications/Pages/Technicalreportroute.aspx). Applicants are recommended to retain at least one further copy of their report, as the Institution cannot accept responsibility for submissions that are lost in transit. An electronic copy of the technical report must also be submitted via email to the membership department.

The technical report


Applicants are reminded that it is their own responsibility to obtain their employers’ permission to submit work of a confidential nature. Special arrangements can be made at the specific request of employers in cases where security sensitive items need to be presented.

The report should comprise the following parts for each project:

• Conceptual design: A critical appraisal of any distinct and viable solutions considered, with the use of sketches and supporting notes outlining the intended load transfer mechanisms, framing and stability functions, and including construction methodology. An evaluation of the merits and disadvantages of these solutions concerning cost or buildability which influenced the final recommended solution. A full description of the solution adopted to include structural framing, stability, robustness and buildability.

• Calculations: Verification of the structural viability of the selected scheme should be demonstrated with sufficient design calculations, by hand, which are normally carried out during preliminary design in order to establish the form and size of salient structural elements. Calculations may range from the validation of initial concept models, through the verification of subsequent computer modelling, to the calculations for important structural component assemblies. Computer generated calculations must be validated by hand.

• Drawings: Sufficient drawings with general arrangements, sections and/or elevations should be included to show the layout, disposition and dimensions of structural elements. All drawings must be A4 in size.


Timetable for Technical Report Route - candidates sitting the Chartered Member Examination in April 2013

Candidates are encouraged to submit all relevant documents in advance of the given deadlines, so that they can be presented to the first available meeting of the Academic Qualifications Panel. The panel meets each year in January, May, September and November.

NB: This is the timetable for candidates wishing to sit the 2013 examination, however dates are likely to be similar in subsequent years. Please email the membership department at [email protected] or view the technical report webpage www.istructe.org/membership/academic_qualifications/Pages/Technicalreportroute.aspx, to confirm the current timetable.


The submission process will consist of four stages:

1 An initial assessment of the application form. 2 Submission and assessment of the synopsis. 3 Submission and assessment of the technical report. 4 The Technical Report Interview (TRI).

Stage 1 – The initial assessment

The following should be prepared and submitted to the Institution:

• Application form G and the relevant Graduate Membership subscription fee (if not already a member). • A certified copy of any academic qualifications, including transcripts.

The application form and further documents will be considered by the Institution’s Academic Qualifications Panel (AQP). If the academic qualifications and experience-based opportunities for further learning are both considered to be appropriate, the applicant will be informed that they may proceed to submit a synopsis for their technical report, and they will normally be allowed up to a year for submission.

If you are already a Graduate Member and have a BEng (Hons) degree (accredited to CEng level) and require further learning you are eligible to apply for the Technical Report Route without first gaining authorisation from the Academic Qualifications Panel.

Stage 2 – The synopsis

When invited to submit a synopsis, the following should be prepared and submitted to the Institution:

• A comprehensive curriculum vitae covering the applicant’s whole career, including positions held. • A statement (with appropriate evidence) of any further learning towards Masters level. • Application form TR/m which includes a 400–700 word synopsis of the proposed technical report setting out clearly how technical competence and understanding of engineering principles are to be demonstrated. • The synopsis fee (please see the website for current fees). • For all applicants, a named IPD mentor should be consulted in the preparation of the synopsis.

The synopsis will be considered by the Institution’s AQP. If the synopsis is approved, the applicant will be informed that they may proceed to submit the technical report, and they will normally be allowed up to a year for submission. However, to be considered for the next examination candidates must submit the technical report by the March deadline. All applicants will receive feedback advice from the Academic Qualifications Panel on writing their particular technical report to help ensure that Masters level academic equivalence is being demonstrated.

The technical report submission process


Stage 3 – Submission and assessment of the technical report

When invited to submit the full technical report, the following should be prepared and submitted to the Institution:

• Three copies of the appropriate technical report. • The technical report assessment fee (please see the website for current fees). • A completed self-assessment checklist for output standards. • An electronic copy of your technical report (submitted via email)

The technical report will be assessed by two assessors. The assessors’ reports will be considered by the Academic Qualifications Panel and candidates will be advised if they are eligible to proceed to the Technical Report Interview.

Stage 4 - The Technical Report Interview

All Technical Report Interviews will be conducted by two independent assessors who have been trained by the Institution.

Interviews are normally conducted at the Institution offices in London. However, to avoid excessive travel and costs, particularly of international travel, the Institution will, upon request, make efforts to organise interviews as locally as possible. The interview will normally take place in July and last approximately one hour. Candidates who are not permitted to proceed to the Professional Review Interview will be given reasons for the decision and appropriate written advice on how to remedy any deficiencies. This written advice will normally be sent to candidates immediately following the next meeting of the Academic Qualifications Panel. If a candidate is unsuccessful they will be advised on how to proceed; for further information please see page 11.

Candidates who successfully complete all stages of the Technical Report Route process will be invited to submit applications to sit the Chartered Membership Professional Review by 1 September in the year preceding the exam they wish to sit.


Technical Report Route for Chartered Membership example technical report synopsisThe following is for illustrative purposes only.


The applicant’s technical report and Technical Report Interview will be assessed against the output standards listed below. These are based on the generic competencies defined by Engineering Council for Masters level. A successful applicant will be expected to demonstrate the following:

A Underpinning science and mathematics • An understanding of the scientific principles of structural engineering and related geotechnics and civil engineering aspects; • An awareness of developing technologies in structural engineering; • Knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to structural engineering, and an appreciation of their limitations.

B Engineering analysis • Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in structural engineering, and an ability to apply alternative approximate methods for their validation; • Ability to use fundamental knowledge and judgement to investigate appropriate structural technologies.

C Design • An ability to generate and evaluate innovative and appropriate designs; • Knowledge and understanding of structural design processes, ranging from the development of alternative initial concepts, through subsequent modifications and development, to the details of fabrication and construction; • Knowledge of the whole life aspects of the design of buildings and structures, including their construction, operation, adaptation and removal; • An ability to assess structural risks, and potential modes of failure and environmental degradation.

Applicants are strongly advised to check the assessors’ form (located at the back of this document) which is used in assessing the technical report to ensure that all relevant required areas for assessment have indeed been adequately addressed.

Output standards


Candidates will submit a technical report in order to demonstrate that they have the engineering knowledge and understanding that is equivalent to Masters level. The report will be judged on the extent to which the applicant has demonstrated a clear grasp of the principles of engineering science and key technical aspects relating to the topic as would normally be expected of a graduate assessed at Masters level.

It is important for Technical Report Route candidates to establish the main differences in learning outcomes between BEng (Hons) and MEng level qualifications as this in turn will allow applicants to identify the key technical aspects required to meet the output standards. Accredited MEng programmes will include a deepening of technical understanding, additional emphasis on team/group working, an increase in use of industrially relevant applications of engineering analysis and an enhanced capability for independent learning and work. It is the deepening of technical understanding which is considered key, however, and the technical report is intended to test this criterion.

The following table lists the sort of areas which would be considered to demonstrate to Masters level further learning. Note that this list is not exhaustive. It is merely intended to serve as a set of examples of structural engineering related areas which are considered to be at Masters level.

Key technical aspects considered to demonstrate Masters level


Resubmission procedure

At each stage of the technical report process, all submissions will be discussed, and formal decisions will be decided upon at the next available Academic Qualifications Panel meeting. If an applicant is unsuccessful at any stage of the process, detailed individual feedback will be provided and specific resubmission information will be set out. The candidate will be advised of appropriate remedial action. This may include revision of the original report or synopsis, or it may be recommended that the candidate submits a different synopsis or report. In such cases the panel will take into account the ability of the report in terms of its content, depth and breadth to deliver and demonstrate the required learning outcomes. If a candidate is unsuccessful at a Technical Report Interview, the panel will once again give specific feedback on the issues and concerns that were raised. Normally, candidates will be invited to attend a second interview but may be asked to make revisions to a report or bring additional documentation to the interview. The panel reserves the right to request that a candidate resubmits at any stage of the Technical Report Route process according to a timetable determined by the panel.

Appeals procedure

If you wish to appeal against a decision, guidance on the appeals process can be found under Section 1.16.2 of the Institution’s regulations:

www.istructe.org/about_institution/Documents/Bye-laws_and_regulations.pdf

Resubmission and appeals procedures


first gaining authorisation from the Academic Qualifications Panel. If your degree is not accredited via the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) or recognised by an agreement (such as Washington Accord/FEANI/Mutual Recognition Agreement) then you will require an academic assessment prior to your application.

3. I have already completed the Technical Report Route with another institution (e.g. ICE/IEI) can I be exempt from the Institution of Structural Engineers’ TRR?

No, the fact that a candidate has completed a technical report with another institution only makes them academically eligible with that institution not with the Institution of Structural Engineers. This is because, although we mutually recognise some courses accredited by other institutions, any academic assessment or technical report that a candidate completes with another institution is not covered by such agreements. It is also important to note that other institutions will not necessarily have a structural emphasis and will look at other areas of knowledge when assessing the report. Therefore in order to have a previously completed report assessed by our Academic Qualifications Panel you may apply to have the report assessed directly (bypassing the synopsis stage). The panel will then determine whether they feel a candidate’s completion of another institution’s report exempts the candidate from further assessment or whether they will require supplementary material and/or Technical Report Interview from the candidate.

4. I was unsuccessful with my technical report submission and therefore did not have an interview. Would I need to pay another full fee when I resubmit?

If you are unsuccessful at the report submission stage you will only be required to pay part of the full report cost on resubmission as the cost of the interview will all ready have been covered by your previous payment of made upon your original submission. For current fees please refer to the webpage www.istructe.org/membership/academic_qualifications/Pages/Technicalreportroute.aspx

5. Are there any examples of completed reports for me to look at?

We have an example synopsis available on the website and in this document on page 8. However, we do not have examples

1. What is the difference between Route A and Route B?

Firstly what route you complete will depend on your academic eligibility. Route A is for applicants holding an accredited BEng (Hons) degree in civil and/or structural engineering or who are AMIStructE holding an accredited degree for Incorporated Engineer or its equivalent. Route B is for applications for applicants not holding formal academic qualifications needed to apply for Chartered Membership through the conventional route.

The following summarises the differences between the Route A and Route B application processes.

2. I have a BEng (Hons) degree accredited as partly meeting the requirements for Chartered Membership. Do I need to apply for an academic assessment before I begin the TRR?

If you are already a Graduate Member and have a BEng (Hons) degree (accredited to CEng level) and require further learning you are eligible to apply for the Technical Report Route without

FAQs


and thereby satisfy the Engineering Council requirements, it does not have any official recognition beyond the Institution. However, other institutions may wish to accept confirmation of completing a Technical Report Route with the Institution as fully meeting the academic requirements for Chartered Membership. Candidates are advised to contact the relevant institution directly to establish their policy regarding technical reports.

11. WillIgetacertificateonceIhavecompletedthis route?

Successful candidates will receive an official letter from the Institution to confirm that the Institution now deems the candidate to be fully academically eligible for Chartered Membership; however they will not receive a certificate.

12. What is the difference between the Technical Report Route (TRR) and Initial Professional Development (IPD)

The Technical Report Route (TRR) is designed to confirm a candidate’s academic eligibly to apply for membership. It is not an assessment of a candidate’s professional experience or eligibility to enter the Professional Review Interview. The Initial Professional Development (IPD) bridges the gap between education and professional qualifications. Core objectives outline the basic competence you will require to achieve membership of the Institution; the IPD is the progression towards meeting the relevant standards in these core objectives and the preparation for the Professional Review Interview.

13. What are some hints in writing the synopsis and technical report?

The Chairman of AQP has provided the following hints and tips:• Use the first person throughout. We want to know what you have done.• Only include information which demonstrates that your educational base has risen to Masters level. We are not looking for training aspects (these are covered within the IPD and at the Professional Review Interview). We are looking for technical deepening educationally.• Write concisely and clearly. Any drawings, sketches, calculations or other output you include must be referred to adequately. Don’t add drawings etc which are not referenced or necessary.• We always look to see that any computer output has been checked by hand calculations. Ensure you include these with your submission.

of completed reports available to review. Candidates are required to provide drawings and calculations from their work and while companies are happy for their employees to use such documents for their technical report they would not wish them to be made available to the public.

Secondly each candidate will be using different projects with invariably different content. The process is very subjective and the content of the report can vary widely between different candidates. We are conscious of the fact that the experience of engineers can differ vastly across the world and we want the reports to reflect the individual experiences of the applicants and do not wish to prescribe a particular way of completing them as being correct. The fear is that some applicants would take the examples as being the definitive way to do things and this may result in a detrimental misrepresentation of their abilities.

6. How long will it take to complete the Technical Report Route?

Provided you pass each stage first time, without the need for supplementary material to be provided, you should complete the Technical Report Route in 8-9 months, from December to August/September. If you are required to re-submit at any stage it will take longer and you may need to wait another year before applying for the Professional Review Interview.

7. How long should my report be?

For Route A candidates the technical report should be a coherent 3,000 to 5,000 word document drawn from typically two substantial projects on which the candidate has been engaged in a responsible capacity.

8. How many pages are expected as appendices?

For Route A candidates the technical report appendices must not exceed thirty pages.

9. What are the fees for this route?

Please visit the link below for the current fees:

www.istructe.org/membership/academic_qualifications/Pages/Technicalreportroute.aspx

10. Will my Technical Report Route be recognised professionally by other institutions and companies?

The technical report is a way for a candidate to confirm their academic eligibility with the Institution of Structural Engineers


Katherine LittlerMembership Qualifications Officer:- Academic Assessments, Technical Report Route and Graduate Membership- [email protected] 020 7201 9106

Darren ByrneDirector, Membership and Education:- All routes to membership- [email protected] 020 7201 9138

Cynthia HearingManager of Membership and Qualifications:- All routes to membership- [email protected] 020 7201 9814

Peter JinksExaminations Manager:- Examinations information- [email protected] 020 7201 9114

Sonia WaigoEducation Officer:- Students, SLO contact- [email protected] 020 7201 9115

Deovonne Ferreira and Louise CliftonMembership and Qualifications Officers:- Fellowship; Mutual Recognition Agreements; Research & Development Route- [email protected] [email protected] 020 7201 9131

Allan BreretonProfessional Development Officer:- Professional Development information, IPD, CPD and Technician Membership- [email protected] 020 7201 9123

Membership department contacts


Form TR/m: Application for approval of a synopsis for the Technical Report for Chartered Membership

Notes to applicantsApplicants not already in membership must also complete application Form G together with certified copies of any academic qualifications, including transcripts and a statement (with appropriate evidence) of any Further Learning towards Masters level and the Graduate membership subscription fee.

International HQ11 Upper Belgrave StreetLondon SW1X 8BHUnited Kingdom

tel: + 44 (0)20 7235 4535fax: + 44 (0)20 7235 [email protected]

1 Candidate’s personal details (to be completed in block letters)

Surname/family name: Title: Mr/Dr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/other:

Forenames/other names: Date of birth:

Full communication address: Age:

Telephone number (work):

Telephone number (home):

Telephone number (mobile):

Postcode/zip code: Fax number:

Membership number (where applicable): Nationality:

Email:

2 Technical Report Route category

Route A Route B

Please refer to 'Guidance for Candidates' which describes the two Technical Report Routes available. Route A applicants must also complete and submit with this form a curriculum vitae (or career resumé) covering their whole career including positions held.

3 Proposed synopsis for the Technical Report Route

1. Title of the proposed Technical Report

2. Subject of the proposed Technical Report

3 Please detail the fundamental principles which the Technical Report will illustrate


3 The synopsis for the Technical Report

Notes to applicants:Applicants must describe in 400-700 words the proposed synopsis for the proposed Technical Report Route setting out clearly how technical competence and understanding of engineering principles are to be demonstrated. Applicants should refer to the 'Guidance for Candidates' on the preparation of the Technical Report Route. Continue on additional sheet if necessary.

4 Candidate's signature

Signature: Date:


Candidate checklist


Candidate name:

Membership number:

Technical Report Route A/B:

Technical Report title:

Report:

A - Underpinning science and mathematics

B - Engineering analysis

C - Design

Approval to progress to Technical Report Route Interview (Stage 3) Yes No

Issues to be raised at Interview if applicable:

Assessors name (print):

Signature: Date:


tel: + 44 (0)20 7235 4535fax: + 44 (0)20 7235 [email protected]

Technical Report Route Stage 2: Assessment of final submission

00119 Form TRR(2) - Stage 2


Output standard Not met

Partially met

Fully met

Not sure

A Underpinning Science and Mathematics

A1 An understanding of the scientific principles of structural engineering and related geotechnics and civil engineering aspects

A2 An awareness of developing technologies in structural engineering

A3 Knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to structural engineering, and an appreciation of their limitations

B Engineering Analysis

B1 Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in structural engineering, and an ability to apply alternative approximate methods for their validation

B2 Ability to use fundamental knowledge and judgement to investigate appropriate structural technologies.

C Design

C1 Ability to generate and evaluate innovative and appropriate designs

C2 Knowledge and understanding of structural design processes, ranging from the development of alternative initial concepts, through subsequent modifications and development, to the details of fabrication and construction

C3 Knowledge of the whole life aspects of the design of buildings and structures, including their construction, operation, adaptation and removal

C4 An ability to assess structural risks, and potential modes of failure and environmental degradation.

Assessment of output standards




tel: +44 (0) 7235 4535fax: +44 (0) 7235 [email protected]