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The module content is divided in four main topics. These are shear strength, consolidation, settlements and bearing capacity. The first two topics include the fundamental concepts which are required to calculate the settlements and the bearing capacity of shallow foundations.
With regards to shear strength of soils, the experimental methods of measurement are initially studied. The main laboratory tests are reviewed and explained so that the students are able to interpret test results and determine the relevant soil properties. More specifically, the models and concepts required as input for geotechnical design are presented (i.e. Mohr circles and failure criteria, drained and undrained behaviour).
The consolidation characteristics of soils are important as they determine the magnitude of settlements. Once again, the experimental methods to determine those characteristics are described and performed and their results are interpreted in relation to concepts used by geotechnical engineers.
Once the concepts of consolidation and shear strength are understood, they can be applied in the design of shallow foundations through the theory of settlement calculation and bearing capacity. These two topics are thoroughly covered and the main principles of performance-based design are explained. The latter constitute the pilar of many internationally used design codes (i.e EC-7 etc).

LO1: Accurately assess the shear strength characteristics of soils in the short-term and long-term states, based on data obtained from laboratory experiments and enhance your reporting and writing skills.
LO2: Understand the concepts of compression and consolidation. Accurately access the consolidation characteristics of soils and interpret relevant laboratory test results.
LO3: Examine the relationship between settlement and bearing capacity through the determination of stress increments beneath various types of shallow foundations.
LO4: Calculate the magnitude of settlements due to external loads for various types of soils and under different soil conditions (drained and undrained).
LO5: Calculate the bearing capacity of soils beneath a wide range of foundation types under different loading types for drained and undrained conditions, while noting how your results/design must interact with other engineering disciplines.