Course Overview
Details reasons and methods for conducting a geotechnical survey. Office procedures are introduced which allow geotechnical information to be obtained before moving into the field. The mechanics of slope movement and causes of slope instability including identification of potential slope hazards are presented.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
2.0
- Retired
- This course has been retired and is no longer offered. Find other Flexible Learning courses that may interest you.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of each module, the student will be able to:
Module 1 - Introduction to the Characteristics of Soils and Soil Deposits
- Define the basic properties of soil.
- Understand and recognize the influence of geology on soil deposits and on soil classification types.
- Distinguish the influence of particle size, shape and soil structure on the stability of an earth slope.
- Explain and describe soil index properties.
- Discuss the importance of groundwater on slope stability.
Module 2 - Introduction to Soil Slopes
- State and define the terminology used in describing soil strength.
- Discuss the design of soil cuts, embankment slopes and natural slopes.
Module 3 - Introduction to Slope Movement
- Name and describe the types of slope movement.
- Describe the causes of slope instability.
- Describe the visual indicators of slope instability.
Module 4 - Instrumentation, Correction, and Protection Measures
- Describe how instrumentation is used to determine the rate, direction and extent of movement in a slope.
- Discuss the methods used to reduce the forces tending to cause movement and how they are applied to slope stabilization projects.
- State and discuss the drainage methods commonly used to stabilize a slope.
- State and discuss the methods used to increase the resisting forces applied to slope stabilization projects.
- Illustrate the use of walls, piles and anchors in slope stabilization projects.
Effective as of Fall 2003
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.