Project-based learning in earthquake engineering: experimental validation of base isolation via scaled models tested on a shake table

This new restriction forces me to rearrange the entire Abstract, which the platform does not allow. If this 200 word limit is mandatory, please use this new Abstract: "Structural dynamics, resonance, and seismic isolation are usually taught through complex mathematical formulations that students struggle to relate to observable physical behaviour. This paper presents and technically validates a reproducible 20-h project-based learning module, ebedded in a 75-h Structural Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering course, in which teams of three to five students integrate material characterization, numerical modelling, specimen fabrication, structural identification, base isolator design, shake-table testing, and data interpretation. Flexural tests on 12 cantilever balsa specimens gave a mean modulus of elasticity of 2637 MPa. An ETABS model predicted a fundamental period of 0.172 s, closely matching the measured 0.174 s of the fixed-base physical model. A 3D-printed pendulum base isolation system extended the measured period to 0.36 s. Under a 5.50 Hz sine-beat excitation (nominal peak base acceleration 0.122 g), five repeat runs gave mean peak absolute roof accelerations of 0.95 g (fixed-base) and 0.27 g (isolated), a 72.1% reduction. The study contributes a pedagogical framework, a weighted student assessment framework, replication protocols, and a critical limitation analysis. Only technical validation is reported; educational effectiveness has not been measured and will be evaluated with student cohorts once the module is formally integrated into the curriculum.