Enhanced teaching and student learning through a simulator-based course in chemical unit operations design

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10 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper illustrates a teaching technique used in computer applications in chemical engineering employed for designing various unit operation processes, where the students learn about unit operations by designing them. The aim of the course is not to teach design, but rather to teach the fundamentals and the function of unit operation processes through simulators. A case study presenting the teaching method was evaluated using student surveys and faculty assessments, which were designed to measure the quality and effectiveness of the teaching method. The results of the questionnaire conclusively demonstrate that this method is an extremely efficient way of teaching a simulator-based course. In addition to that, this teaching method can easily be generalised and used in other courses. A student’s final mark is determined by a combination of in-class assessments conducted based on cooperative and peer learning, progress tests and a final exam. Results revealed that peer learning can improve the overall quality of student learning and enhance student understanding.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)455-467
Number of pages13
JournalEuropean Journal of Engineering Education
Volume41
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 3 2016

Keywords

  • Aspen plus
  • Chemical engineering
  • Computer application
  • Engineering education
  • Hysys
  • PRO/II
  • Simulator-based learning
  • Unit operations

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Education
  • Engineering(all)

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