Educational interactive LabVIEW simulations of field hydraulic conductivity tests below water table

Abstract

AbstractVisual artifacts used in graphical designs of the mechanisms of groundwater flow problems are very influential in learning and teaching. The merits of the classical methods of problem‐solving using only mathematics become much less superior to those linked with interactive graphics. In this study, an interactive educational LabVIEW program is designed to graphically simulate the constructional and mathematical procedures of the two widely used field methods in groundwater engineering, the Ernst auger‐hole method, and the Bouwer–Rice slug test method, for field measurements of the hydraulic conductivity of soils below the water table. The simulations included the basic constructional steps in carrying out the auger hole and the slug test field methods. Virtual geometric wells, boreholes, and pipes are graphically and interactively designed to conduct the required field tests. The simulations of the program enabled the students to get acquainted with what should be done in the field to measure soil hydraulic conductivity and enhanced understanding of how to perform a field test. Students were able to try different field hydrological parameters, and by successively changing any hydrological field parameter, they were able to visualize graphically and interactively its influence inside the classroom. This particular step improved the student's practical standards. Conditions of validity of each field test are completely fulfilled by the program. Results of the interactive program are found to be visually interesting and extremely accurate, which made this educational program quite interesting in teaching and learning.