1. A new field exercise for experiential learning in coastal engineering
Dr. Ryan P. Mulligan
Department of Civil Engineering
May 1, 2019

2. CIVL451 - Coastal Engineering
Understanding natural processes
Waves
Currents, tides, winds, sediments, storms, ice…
Oceans, lakes, reservoirs, estuaries…
Designing structures
To withstand natural forces
Protect infrastructure, and people
Reduce risk of natural hazards

4. Breakwater Park Field Wave Measurement
hands-on experience in a new field exercise
use pressure sensors to measure waves
Work in groups
Set up sensor using computer
Deploy in the field
Data analysis and interpretation
Field observations, compared to:
Predictions (hindcast calculations, computer model)
Report (individual)

9. Wave Measurements

10. Wave Model

11. Assessment: Designing the right rubric!

12. Challenges
70 students
Weather (timing)
Safety

13. Acknowledgements Nerissa Mulligan and Wanda Beyer Funding from
assessment facilitators for the CAR project
Funding from
CAR Innovation Seeding
FEAS (course enhancement grant)
the Department of Civil Engineering