Application of a Conceptual Hydrologic Model in Teaching Hydrologic Processes*

In this study, a hands-on modeling tool is developed for students in civil engineering and earth science disciplines to help them learn the fundamentals of hydrologic processes and basic concepts of model calibration and sensitivity analysis, and practice conceptual thinking in solving and analysis of engineering problems. This modeling tool aims to provide an interdisciplinary application-oriented learning environment that introduces the hydrologic phenomena through the use of a simplified conceptual hydrologic model. The modeling tool was introduced in an upper-level civil engineering course and students were asked to submit their feedback before and after using the modeling tool through the Student Assessment of Learning Gains (SALG) online system to gauge improvement in their learning. The SALG report showed that the hands-on approach significantly added to students’ learning and provided them with better understanding of interconnected hydrologic processes. Furthermore, students gained knowledge in areas that are not commonly taught in hydrology lectures (e.g. calibration, sensitivity analysis, etc). Based on the findings, some recommendations are given for further improvements in the use of hydrologic models as interactive tools for teaching complex and interconnected hydrologic concepts and inspiring students towards postgraduate education or future professional career.