Innovative Teaching and Learning Process
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING 23CE45C SOIL MECHANICS REGULATIONS - 2023
Overview
As part of the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) framework, an innovative teaching–learning and assessment activity was implemented to achieve Course Outcome 6 (CO6) :
“Demonstrate the basic index properties of soil and prepare a soil report based on IS Soil Classification System.”
This activity was designed at PDL2 level focusing on hands-on experimentation, analysis, and reporting skills, with a target attainment threshold of 75%
Innovative Teaching Strategy
To enhance experiential learning, students were organized into 12 batches, and each batch was assigned soil samples collected from different geographical locations such as Kovilpatti, Tirunelveli, Vilathikulam, and Aruppukottai.
Unlike conventional laboratory practices using uniform samples, this approach introduced:
Real-time variability in soil conditions
Location-based analysis and interpretation
Independent learning and teamwork.
Students performed standard laboratory tests including:
Specific Gravity
Grain Size Analysis
Atterberg Limits
Relative Density
Assessment Methodology
A structured evaluation system was adopted to measure CO6 attainment:
Laboratory Performance – 40 Marks
Experimental/Test Evaluation – 40 Marks
Viva Voce – 20 Marks
Assessment emphasized:
Accuracy of experimental results
Soil classification as per IS 1498
Interpretation of engineering behavior
Quality of technical report preparation
Key Outcomes
Based on the batch-wise analysis and classification:
A variety of soils such as SP, CH, SW-SM, and SP-SC were identified.
Students gained exposure to regional soil variability.
Majority successfully performed classification and interpretation.
Significant Achievement
Students demonstrated the ability to:
Conduct soil tests independently
Analyze and interpret results
Classify soils accurately
CO6 Attainment
The activity resulted in successful attainment of CO6, with performance exceeding the prescribed 75% threshold.
Conclusion
This innovative approach integrating field-based sample collection, laboratory experimentation, and analytical reporting significantly enhanced student learning. It bridged the gap between theory and practice and ensured effective attainment of course outcomes.
Faculty Remark
The activity enabled students to understand real-world soil behavior and independently classify soils based on experimental results, demonstrating strong attainment of CO6 through experiential learning.
Table 1: Consolidated Summary of Soil Samples and Engineering Interpretation
| Batch | Place | Location | Soil Type | IS Classification | Key Behavior |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Suba Nagar | Kovilpatti | Clay | CH | High compressibility |
| 2 | Arunachalam Nagar | Kovilpatti | Sand + fines | SW-SM | Good drainage |
| 3 | Thimmarajapuram | Tirunelveli | Sand | SP | Needs compaction |
| 4 | Maharaja Nagar | Tirunelveli | Sand | SP | Loose condition |
| 5 | Railway Feeder Road | Aruppukottai | Sand | SP | Moderate strength |
| 6 | Palayamkottai | Tirunelveli | Sand | SP | Loose soil |
| 7 | Residential Plot | Vilathikulam | Sand | SP | Coarse soil |
| 8 | Krishnapuram | Tirunelveli | Sand | SP | Uniform particles |
| 9 | Sankar Nagar | Tirunelveli | Sand + clay | SP-SC | Moderate plasticity |
| 10 | Sippiparai | Tirunelveli | Clay | CH | High plasticity |
| 11 | Temple Area | Kovilpatti | Sand | SP | Low fines |
| 12 | Perumal Patti | Kovilpatti | Sand + gravel | SP | Good drainage |