ABSTRACT
The current paper examines some changes involving teaching of geomechanics in undergraduate engineering curricula arising as a result of recent advances in computer technology and geotechnology. It is noted that the changes taking place in the subject matter as well as in the subject delivery are generally very positive. However, this situation may mean that less time is devoted to the information of basic geomechanical concepts than one desires. The use of simple models and observations of everyday life to elucidate basic concepts is put forward as a way of handling this situation. The models need to be easy to perform in the lecture room itself and should not require significant manufacturing effort. The paper presents several such examples covering a number of conceptual issues including effective stress principle, undrained and drained behaviour of soils, and leaching and diffusion of contaminants in groundwater.
