ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 2369

BOOSTING ENGAGEMENT AND LEARNING IN CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY THROUGH DIGITAL ACTIVE LEARNING STRATEGIES
A. Fdez-Sanromán, S. Escudero-Curiel, V. Poza-Nogueiras, M. Pazos, M.A. Sanroman, E. Rosales
Universidade de Vigo (SPAIN)
Active learning has emerged as a powerful approach to enhance student engagement and academic performance, especially in technical subjects of Engineering degrees like Chemical Technology. In today’s educational landscape, the integration of digital tools with pedagogical innovation is essential for fostering motivation and deeper understanding of the contents. This communication explores the redesign of a Chemical Technology course, which is part of the third year of the Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Technologies Engineering. The proposal is based on the application of digital active learning strategies aimed at maximizing student engagement, promoting active learning and creating an immersive and professionally relevant learning experience.

The updated course incorporates a diverse set of interactive tools including real-time quizzes (Mentimeter, Quizizz...), simulation-based activities, gamified decision-making environments, and H5P-based interactive videos. These digital resources not only support conceptual learning but also simulate real-world chemical processes, enabling students to explore complex scenarios and apply systems thinking in a guided, practical context.

The primary objectives of this methodology are to:
(i) improve student engagement by connecting course content to real-world industrial and environmental challenges;
(ii) support the development of problem-solving skills through digital simulations;
(iii) foster interdisciplinary learning by bridging chemistry, technology, and sustainability topics; and
(iv) reinforce foundational knowledge while cultivating professional competencies.

Student feedback collected through post-course evaluations reveals high levels of satisfaction, increased motivation, and perceived improvement in understanding. The results suggest that embedding active digital learning tools into the curriculum significantly enhances both learning outcomes and student interest in Chemical Technology.

Acknowledgments:
The authors thank the Centro de Posgrao e Formación Permanente da Universidade de Vigo for its support through the “Convocatoria de axudas económicas para as actividades dos GID 2025”.

Keywords: Active learning, digital strategies, Chemical Technology, student conceptual persistence, simulation-based education.

Event: ICERI2025
Track: Digital & Distance Learning
Session: e-Learning Experiences
Session type: VIRTUAL