Digital Image Analysis in Geotechnical Engineering Education
Publication: Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice
Volume 133, Issue 1
Abstract
Existing research has shown that visual input significantly contributes to learning, therefore, it is paramount to use visual tools to help demonstrate engineering concepts. One of these tools, digital image analysis, can help effectively communicate complex concepts to students in a simple and understandable format as a supplement to traditional lecturing, while simultaneously enabling students to have hands-on experience. This note describes a series of activities to incorporate digital image analysis into engineering education. The undergraduate students worked in research projects that involved image-based analysis of geomaterials. Based on these activities and the students’ response to a questionnaire, it was recognized that digital image analysis can enhance the understanding of engineering phenomena for undergraduate students. The hands-on experience and visual demonstration improved the students’ grasp of fundamental concepts in research projects. The research experience allowed the students to build a connection between the classroom and the solution of state-of-the-art engineering scientific problems. It also taught them about cooperation and teamwork, as well as academic independence.
Get full access to this article
View all available purchase options and get full access to this article.
Acknowledgments
Partial funding for this project was provided by Lilly Teaching Fellowship awarded to the writer by the University of Maryland Center for Teaching Excellence. This support is gratefully acknowledged.
References
Aydilek, A. H., Oguz, S. H., and Edil, T. B. (2002). “Digital image analysis to determine pore opening size distribution of nonwoven geotextiles.” J. Comput. Civ. Eng., 16(4), 280–290.
Ball, S. B. and Eckel, C. C. (2004). “Using technology to facilitate active learning in economics through experiments.” Soc. Sci. Compt. Rev., 22(4), 469–478.
Bhatia, S. K., Huang, Q., and Smith, J. (1993). “Application of digital image processing in morphological analysis of geotextiles.” Proc., Conf. on Digital Image Processing: Techniques and Applications in Civil Engineering, Vol. 1, Special Publication, ASCE, Honolulu, 95–108.
Culver, R. S., Woods, D., and Fitch, P. (1990). “Gaining professional expertise through design activities.” Eng. Educ., 80(1), 533–536.
Davidson, C., and Ambrose, S. (1994). The new professor’s handbook: A guide to teaching and research in engineering and science, Anker, Williston, Vt.
Grigg, N. S., Criswell, M. E., Fontane, D. G., and Siller, T. J. (2005). “Information technology in civil engineering curriculum.” J. Profl. Issues Eng. Educ. Pract., 131(1), 26–31.
Jang, D. J., Frost, D. J., and Park, J. Y. (1999). “Preparation of epoxy impregnated sand coupons for image analysis.” Geotech. Test. J., 22(2), 147–158.
Martini, K. (1999). “Digital imaging in teaching structures: A rigorous visual approach.” J. Profl. Issues Eng. Educ. Pract., 125(2), 56–64.
Masad, E., Muhunthan, B., and Crowe, C. (2002). “Numerical modeling of fluid flow in microscopic images of granular materials.” Int. J. Numer. Analyt. Meth. Geomech., 26(1), 53–74.
Pickett, M., et al. (2000). “Hands-on engineering experiments for secondary school students.” J. Profl. Issues Eng. Educ. Pract., 126(2), 69–73.
Sabatini, D. A. (1997). “Teaching and research synergism: The undergraduate research experience.” J. Profl. Issues Eng. Educ. Pract., 123(3), 98–102.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (1986). “Geotextiles used as filters.” Civil works construction guide specification no. CW-02215, Office of the Chief of Engineers, Washington, D.C.
Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice
Volume 133 • Issue 1 • January 2007
Pages: 38 - 42
Copyright
© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Feb 10, 2005
Accepted: Jan 5, 2006
Published online: Jan 1, 2007
Published in print: Jan 2007
Authors
Metrics & Citations
Metrics
Citations
Download citation
If you have the appropriate software installed, you can download article citation data to the citation manager of your choice. Simply select your manager software from the list below and click Download.