Fostering Engineering Laboratory Course Teaching by Embedding an Inquiry-Guided Learning Approach Using Computer-Aided Learning Packages

Evaluation of Learning Outcomes in a Cooling Tower Experiment in the Unit Operations Lab

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18260/2-1-370.660-129133

Abstract

A Computer-Aided Learning Package as Inquiry-Guided Learning (CALP/IGL) was implemented in a cooling tower experiment for 43 students enrolled in four sections of the Unit Operations Laboratory course in the chemical engineering program at Qatar University. The impact of this approach on the attainment of learning outcomes was evaluated. Results show that CALP/IGL helped improve the attainment level of course learning outcomes by ~35%. The skills improved were mainly those aiming for the students' ability to interpret and discuss the experimental data. The criteria for improvement were mainly the students' ability to explain the chart trends according to the relevant theoretical principles, leading to addressing misconceptual mistakes. It also helped mitigate educational logical fallacies and reduce the academic gap among students of different learning styles and capabilities.

Author Biographies

Dr. Ahmed Elkhatat, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of engineering, Qatar University

Dr. Ahmed Elkhatat is A Ph.D. qualified and experienced in the entire spectrum of activities associated with chemistry and chemical engineering's academic position. Track record of patents and research in pedagogy, analytical and applied chemical engineering, and chemistry, with associated production of peer-reviewed publications in prestigious scientific journals, conference papers, and a book. Active in teaching, Lab safety, and infrastructure management to accommodate multiple needs and the Department's broader functioning, including student pastoral care. Reviews for prestigious scientific journals and keeps abreast of the latest analytical technologies. Besides being committed to health and safety, he is actively engaged to ensure a safe working environment in compliance with ISO45001. Extra-mural Interests include judging and helping schools with science competitions, innovation to produce patentable ideas, and promoting science in the mass media (Stars of Science TV show).

Shaheen A. Al-Muhtaseb, Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar

Prof. Shaheen Al-Muhtaseb earned his Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of South Carolina in 2001. He also earned his M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in Chemical Engineering from the Jordan University of Science and Technology. He is currently a Professor of Chemical Engineering at Qatar University. His main research interests are the various fields of Advanced Materials, with special attention to adsorption equilibria, membranes for gas separation, and energy storage materials.

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Published

2022-07-10

Issue

Vol. 56 No. 3 (2022): Summer 2022

Section

Manuscripts