In recent years the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE), the International Association for Engineering Geology and Environment (IAEG), and the International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) have concluded a Cooperation Agreement, leading to the foundation of the Federation of International Geo-engineering Societies (FIGS). One major aim of the FIGS is to coordinate scientific and technical activities in areas with overlapping interests between the Members. Since education and training is, obviously, such an area, the 1st International Conference on Education and Training in Geo-Engineering Sciences: Soil Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology and Rock Mechanics (Constantza, Romania, 2 - 4 June 2008) can be rightfully considered as an event supporting FIGS in carrying out its functions for the international geo-engineering community.This book presents papers from the conference in Constantza, and covers a broad range of topics, such as: - Curricular matters in geo-engineering education, teaching; - Learning and assessment in geo-engineering education; - Challenges in geotechnical engineering education;- Issues in education and training in Engineering Geology, and - The link university -professional world in geo-engineering. A significant number of contributions was prepared by distinguished representatives of the three Sister Societies, while the volume also includes a number of reports on education and training in geo-engineering sciences in 23 countries. This book will be invaluable to university teachers, academics and professionals, involved in education and training in geo-engineering sciences.
