This is actually an introductory course for finite element method. According to the course description, the student must take first Continuum Mechanics, Matrix Analysis and other Math subjects before enrolling here.
I later realized how true this is. In continuum mechanics, you will learn how to derive formulas using indicial notation which is required in the operation of stiffness matrix with lots of elements involved. Concept of kronecker delta and permutation symbol sheds light on this.
Remember, finite elements is about meshing. A typical plane body will be meshed by hundred elements and thus, one should devise a way to understand interconnection of those meshes to each other. Thats how indicial notation becomes very useful. Also, derivation of formulas in linear elasticity is easily done in continuum mechanics. This linear elasticity formula is important in Finite Element method.
But the whole operation of finite element method after getting each element stiffness through its theory follows the concept of Stiffness Matrix Analysis. That is, you will get the unknown displacements first prior to getting the stresses.
Again, thats how important CE 201 is for a structural engineering major.
Upon learning FEM, I am able to realize the importance of beams, plates and shell in structural engineering. More important was their theoretical background. This lesson will help you learn and manipulate easily structural engineering softwares like ETABS and STAAD.
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