Description

This course will cover basic information on soils and foundations. It has a focus on geotechnical issues in the real world and emphasizes the role of the materials engineer. Materials engineers should be asking questions, collaborating, and viewing other perspectives in all aspects of geotechnical work. They should know when to ask for help and ask for it when needed.

As engineers, we are interested in the geology of the project site as well as what the science of geology can tell us about rocks and soils on the site. We want to know the origin of rocks and soil and how the processes that formed them may influence their engineering properties. We will use that information to make design and construction decisions on our transportation project.

To ensure the construction of a well-designed pavement structure, geotechnical input is key. From a structural standpoint, stiffness/strength and drainage are key factors for road design—both of which are affected by soils and foundations.

Topics covered

• Geology and Transportation
• Geotechnical Project Development
• Embankments and Slopes
• Pavements

Who Should Take This Course

This course is intended for a variety of positions within local agencies and tribal governments, with an emphasis on the role of the materials engineer, as well as those providing input and information in support of geotechnical work. It’s important to note that the target audience is primarily professionally certified engineers with a great deal of prior knowledge and expertise.

Accessing the Course

This training is offered via the course management system Canvas. Upon completing your online registration, you will receive an email confirmation. To access the course, please visit Canvas and login with your University of Minnesota internet ID and password. Once you have been enrolled, your course will appear on your Canvas dashboard.

If for any reason you do not have access to the course after enrolling, please contact Katherine Stanley at sell0146@umn.edu for assistance.

Technical Requirements

Because it's built using web standards, Canvas runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or any other device with a modern web browser. Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer work best for this course.

Credit

• To the best of our knowledge, this course meets the continuing education requirements for 3.0 PDHs as outlined in Minnesota Statute 326.107. More information concerning continuing education for professionals is available on the Minnesota Board of AELSLAGID website.

Sponsors

This course is sponsored by the Minnesota Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) at the University of Minnesota. Minnesota LTAP is sponsored by the Minnesota Local Road Research Board (LRRB) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Course curriculum was developed and compiled by FHWA Center for Local Aid Support in conjunction with a technical advisory panel of experts including local agencies and state DOTs.