Soil Mechanics Through Project-Based Learning

The currently available soil mechanics textbooks explain theory and show some practical applications through solving abstract geotechnical problems. Unfortunately, they do not engage students in the learning process as students do not "experience" what they study. This book employs a more engaging project-based approach to learning, which partially simulates what practitioners do in real life. It focuses on practical aspects of soil mechanics and makes the subject "come alive" through introducing real world geotechnical problems that the reader will be required to solve. This book appeals to the new generations of students who would like to have a better idea of what to expect in their employment future.

This book covers all significant topics in soil mechanics and slope stability analysis. Each section is followed by several review questions that will reinforce the reader’s knowledge and make the learning process more engaging. A few typical problems are also discussed at the end of chapters to help the reader develop problem-solving skills. Once the reader has sufficient knowledge of soil properties and mechanics, they will be offered to undertake a project-based assignment to scaffold their learning. The assignment consists of real field and laboratory data including boreholes and test results so that the reader can experience what geotechnical engineering practice is like, identify with it personally, and integrate it into their own knowledge base. In addition, some problems include open-ended questions, which will encourage the reader to exercise their judgement and develop practical skills. To foster the learning process, solutions to all questions are provided to ensure timely feedback.

Dr Ivan Gratchev is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Engineering & Built Environment, Griffith University, Australia. His research interests are in geotechnical aspects of landslides, soil liquefaction, and rock mechanics. He has published numerous research articles in leading international journals and international conferences. During his academic career, Dr Gratchev has taught several geotechnical courses (including soil mechanics, rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering practice) using a project-based approach. His teaching achievements were recognised by his peers and students through a number of learning and teaching citations and awards.

Dong-Sheng Jeng is a professor at School of Engineering & Built Environment, Griffith University, Australia. His main research interests include coastal and ocean modelling, offshore geotechnics, porous flow, groundwater hydrodynamics, Artificial neural network and offshore wind energy. Alongside his research, he has authored or co-authored more than 250 journal articles and is an associate editor for a number of journals in the fields.

Associate Professor Erwin Oh is the Director International for Griffith Sciences at Griffith University. He is also an Associate Professor in Geotechnical Engineering. He completed his Bachelor of Engineering and Master of Engineering degrees in Taiwan, and he was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Griffith University. He teaches Geotechnical Engineering for undergraduate student and Advanced Foundation Engineering for postgraduate student. His research interests include soft soils behaviours, ground improvement techniques, and pavement rehabilitation. He has co-authored over 100 refereed journal and conference articles. Associate Professor Oh has strong research collaboration with international partners and is actively engaged with the industry.