Balancing Classical Solutions With Computer Technology In The Undergraduate Geotechnical Curriculum

Abstract

One of the desired outcomes of civil engineering technology education is to prepare students for the practice of civil engineering after they graduate. This requires developing student knowledge and competence in the use of standard design practices, tools, techniques, and computer hardware and software appropriate to their technical discipline. To accomplish this, technical courses must balance the coverage of engineering theory with engineering applications typically encountered in practice. Computer technology commonly used in civil engineering practice must be included to achieve this. To meet the needs of employers, students need familiarity with current computer software, as well as an understanding of theories and analysis methods used by the software. Educators must carefully balance the coverage of theory and classical solutions with computer applications to provide students the background they need for their profession.