Reinforced soil with geosynthetics – hands-on learning (PBL) using sand and paper

An elective module on geosynthetics was designed and made available to Civil Engineering students (5 years’ integrated masters). This paper reports a hands-on activity using sand and paper, adopted as part of a problem-based learning (PBL) model and the feedback collected in 2011/2012 using questionnaires. The model and its main features are briefly described, particularly the problem on soil reinforcement with geosynthetics. The students’ feedback and some of their outputs are presented to highlight how simple and relatively cheap activities can contribute to learning and create a positive impact on students. The success of the PBL approach is enhanced by managing expectations, as well as giving adequate support and feedback to students.