ENHANCING CHEMICAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION THROUGH INTERACTIVE LEARNING AND PROBLEM-BASED APPROACHES
E. Dalmau1, M. Umaña Zamora1, M. Contreras2, M. Grachev1, C. Rosselló1, S. Simal1
This work presents an innovative teaching methodology implemented in the "Experimentation in Chemical Engineering I" course at the University of the Balearic Islands. The course, part of the Chemistry degree program, aims to provide students with practical training in Chemical Engineering, allowing them to apply fundamental principles in an experimental setting.
The proposed methodology addresses the challenge of students' lack of preparedness before laboratory sessions by developing a problem-based learning environment using the Genially platform. This interactive presentation offers students a guided theoretical-practical environment where learning occurs through alternative methodologies such as gamification and problem-based learning.
Key features of the methodology include:
1. Interactive video content: Students must view a series of interactive videos with integrated questions on the Genially platform. Correct answers are required to obtain passwords for accessing laboratory practice guides.
2. Gamification: The approach introduces gamification elements, as students must overcome progressive challenges to advance in their learning, fostering motivation and active participation.
3. Real-world problem simulation: Laboratory practices are designed to simulate real problems that students might face in the chemical industry, allowing them to apply acquired knowledge in practical, contextualized situations.
4. Progressive learning flow: After completing each practice, students must upload their experimental results to the platform. Only then can they access the data analysis guide, ensuring an orderly and progressive workflow that reinforces the acquisition of competencies in experimental data treatment.
5. Continuous assessment: The platform generates detailed reports of student responses, providing key information on their level of understanding. This facilitates the identification of concepts that require reinforcement and allows for more precise adaptation of teaching to student needs.
This methodological innovation not only promotes student autonomy but also improves learning effectiveness by ensuring that each student arrives at the laboratory with an adequate knowledge base and can optimally develop the experimental competencies required in the course.
The transition from traditional laboratory practice presentation to a problem-based approach has been a key aspect of this innovation. Practices are now presented as realistic challenges inspired by situations students might encounter in the chemical industry, rather than as a series of experimental procedures to follow.
In conclusion, this teaching project demonstrates how the integration of digital tools, gamification, and problem-based learning can significantly enhance the learning experience in chemical engineering education, better preparing students for real-world challenges in their future professional careers.
Keywords: Interactive Learning, Problem-Based Learning, Gamification, Chemical Engineering Education, Laboratory Practices.