Infusing Climate Concepts into Geotechnical Engineering Lessons

Educators must prepare the next generation of engineers who will inherit a world that will be different from the present.Research shows that Civil Engineering students often lack sufficient training in climate science.To be successful, graduates need training in evaluating hazards from extreme winds, waves, and rain, and understanding climate change risks.At The Citadel, climate change impacts are integrated into several lessons in an introductory Geotechnical Engineering course.This paper demonstrates how climate change education can be integrated across the curriculum by redesigning lessons using backward design and implementing active pedagogies, including pre-lesson, in-class, and post-lesson activities.In addition, it will provide insights and recommendations as to how climate concepts can be implemented in other courses.Instructors often overlook the connections between their field-specific coursework and climate change.