Holistic analysis methods used to support education in geotechnical engineering: tunnel stability

An educational framework for understanding tunnel stability through physical modelling, numerical analysis and plasticity solutions is presented along with the planning, preparation and assessment of a module where students investigate the stability of a tunnel via these three important methodologies. The physical modelling is conducted using the centrifuge at City St George’s, University of London. Students are tasked with examining the critical support pressure required to prevent tunnel collapse in over-consolidated clay. The experimental setup, designed to be reproducible in teaching laboratories, demonstrates the construction process through gradual reduction of air pressure support. Comprehensive measurements of ground surface and subsurface movements provide students with rich datasets for understanding soil-structure interaction. The experimental results are complemented by plasticity solutions and finite element analyses using Abaqus, offering students exposure to physical, analytical and numerical modelling techniques. The comparison between these methods emphasises the value of using holistic approaches in geotechnical engineering. This case study serves as a valuable teaching resource for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in geotechnical engineering and soil mechanics. Observations on module delivery and student performance highlight the importance of authentic assessment in the AI age.