Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit provides students with practical tools necessary for the design of deep and shallow foundations, basements and tunnels. Numerous case history examples are used to illustrate a wide variety of construction procedures for both onshore and offshore environments and how they impact on the geotechnical design process. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of simple design approaches employing appropriate soil parameters. Students are exposed to typical commercial software used in geotechnical engineering. The topics covered in the unit include soil parameter selection, basement design, shallow and deep foundation design, offshore foundation design, and tunnel design.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) utilise improved interpersonal skills for working in groups; (2) proficiently prepare a design report; (3) discuss limitations of current practice and how improvements can be made; (4) explain how research benefits everyday design practice; (5) apply soil mechanics principles to the geotechnical design of shallow and deep foundations (onshore and offshore), basements and tunnels; (6) describe how construction-related issues impact geotechnical designs; (7) proficiently use common soil-structure interaction software; (8) discuss accuracy requirements and limitations; (9) apply sensitivity studies in design; and (10) gain experience of communication of geotechnical issues in a face to face interview.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) in class assessment and design assignments; (2) oral examination; and (3) a final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Barry Lehane
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
62550 Master of Professional Engineering
and CIVL4401 Applied Geomechanics

or
Enrolment in
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
and 120 Points
and CIVL3401 Applied Geomechanics
Contact hours
49 hours
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.