This course focuses on in-depth applications of Geotechnical Engineering incorporating an experi-ential form of education referred to as the service-learning approach to solve problems that affect individuals/communities. The main objective of this course is to provide an opportunity for the students to experience a professional-like, team-working experience/expectation within a stu-dio/collective/interactive environment and a chance to incorporate their civil engineering knowledge to several realistic/real-life projects with an eye on also the economi-cal/practical/availability considerations. These in-depth projects may include one or more of the following situations/design conditions related to Geotechnical Engineering: retaining structures (gravity, semi-gravity, nailed, anchored), shallow and deep foundations – including spread/strip footings, mats, driven piles, and drilled shafts, stability investigations of natural and man-made slopes, and ground improvement techniques using inclusions, mechanical and chemical treat-ment. Applied static and dynamic (vibration and/or earthquake) loads based on various suggested codes and approaches, foundation selection and dimensioning, bearing capacity, settlement, group effects, and lateral load capacity of the various foundation types will be covered with an emphasis on practical aspects and applications. An essential and important aspect of foundation design is to gain a thorough understanding of the necessary/realistic parameters that may be obtained through in-situ sampling and characterization methods.
- Plan a subsurface exploration, and select appropriate drilling, sampling and field property measurement tools for different soil profiles [B6]
- Evaluate laboratory and field data to select appropriate shear strength values to use in design [B5]
- Create an idealized soil profile for analysis and design from collected soil properties [B6]
- Design projects involving geotechnical engineering solutions and cost analyses [B5]
- Develop an overarching systems approach to a problem utilizing engineering principles [B6]
- Develop interpersonal skills through community partnership and an appreciation of social impact of projects [B2]
| Workload | Hrs |
|---|---|
| Course Readings | 25 |
| Field Trips/Visits | 20 |
| Observation | 15 |
| Lab Applications | 15 |
| Exams/Quizzes | 10 |
| Case Study Analysis | 15 |
| Oral Presentation | 10 |
| Demonstration | 10 |