35513 - Engineering Geology

Learning outcomes

Engineering Geology is aimed at studying the engineering and environmental problems which may arise as a result of the interaction between geology and human activities. The main goal of the course is to improve the knowledge of geological and geomorphological processes, developing skills in the analysis of their effects on civil engineering design.

Course contents

Prerequisites
A solid prior knowledge and understanding of basic geology are required to successfully follow this course.
Fluent spoken and written English is also essential, as all lectures, tutorials, and study materials will be provided in English.

Course Content
In line with the course objectives, the programme will cover the topics listed below, with particular focus on unstable slopes.

Module 1 (30 hours)
a. Assessment of the geological model based on the characteristics and mechanical behaviour of soils and rocks, geognostic investigations, and monitoring data
b. Case studies of surveys and campaigns for the assessment of geological models of unstable slopes
c. Monitoring: instruments and applications in different geological and geomorphological contexts

Module 2 (18 hours)
d. Design: IT tools and methods for managing and processing geological spatial data

Readings/Bibliography

All the provided materials, documents and readings are available on the VIRTUALE platform (https://virtuale.unibo.it ) of the course.

The material contains all the knowledge necessary to take the final exam.

Some readings which may help the student to consolidate previous knowledge and to the final exam preparation are:

- Marshak S., Earth: Portrait of a Planet, W.W. Norton

- Abramson L.W., Lee T.S., Sharma S., Boyce G.M., Slope Stability and Stabilization Methods, Wiley

- Turner A.K. & Schuster L.R., Landslides: investigation and mitigation. TRB Special Report 247

- Dikau R., Brunsden D., Schrott L., Ibsen M.L. , Landslide Recognition: Identification, Movement and Causes, Wiley

Teaching methods

The course combines classroom lectures with practical exercises, group discussions, and seminars by invited experts to promote active learning and critical thinking. A field trip will provide direct experience with case studies relevant to the topics covered. Videos and other web-based content will complement the teaching material, while practical activities will include work on thematic maps and the use of specific software tools. All materials and resources will be provided through the Virtuale platform.

Assessment methods

For students who attend the course, homework on a case study selected by the student will be assigned and assessed through an oral presentation to be given at the end of the course. A written report on the same case study must be submitted by the final exam date. Achievements will be evaluated based on the analytical assessment of the case study assignments (2/3 of the final mark) and a computer-based multiple-choice test (1/3 of the final mark), consisting of 30 questions to be completed in 30 minutes, with no penalty for wrong answers.

Notes and books are not allowed during the written exam.
For students who do not attend the course, a written exam with open and multiple-choice questions, followed by an oral discussion, is foreseen.

Higher grades will be awarded to students who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the subject, critical application skills, and a clear, concise presentation in their homework.

To pass the course, students must demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, some critical application skills, and a comprehensible use of technical language.

A failing grade will be assigned if the student shows gaps in key concepts, inappropriate use of technical language, or logical flaws in their analysis.

Teaching tools

Videos and additional online resources will complement the core teaching materials. Practical exercises will involve the analysis of thematic maps and the use of specialized software tools. All course materials will be accessible through the Virtuale platform.

Office hours

See the website of Lisa Borgatti

See the website of Giacomo Titti