using podcasts to demonstrate the use of graphical/numerical techniques in chemical engineering

Using Podcasts to demonstrate the use of graphical/numerical

techniques in Chemical Engineering

Esther Ventura-Medina

HEA-Benefits of eLearning TechnologiesApril 2011

TESS Project funded by EPS-faculty ,UoM

Learning Scenario

Using Podcasts/EVM HEA-Benefits of eLearning TechnologiesApril 2011

Learning Scenario


The Context: Numerical/Graphical Examples are used in lectures to model the solution to some typical problems in chemical engineering applications.

The problem: These techniques are inherently dynamic and difficult to follow unless the sequence of actions is clearly establish.

Solution: Production of Podcasts

Task implementation

Podcasts were produced covering the most critical methods/concepts in two units (SFS &CED).

Some on-line self- & summative- tests were used by students to check their grasp of concepts associated to these techniques.

Evaluation of the Project: Survey in Bb9.


Success?


Survey had 8 questions. Combined LIKERT and comments.

SFS : 230 students 55 responded to the survey.

CED: 250 students ongoing.

Success?


Some comments from students in SFS on what they like:

“how each step is clearly explained”,

“that even if it takes a while for me to understand a method, I can always pause and think again and rewind. The freedom makes it very easy to learn.”,

”I find the podcasts to be excellent”,

”They were very useful when I had almost no clue on how to approach a problem (i.e. finding minimum flux). It made a clear connection between theory and actual calculations.”,

“The podcasts available for SFS are great assistance to help me through my studies. I see the podcasts as a great learning aide along side lectures, online self tests and tutorials. I am a strong auditory learner, it helps me a great deal in lectures to learn and having these lectures on demand, on my ipod are a great help to me and would like it to be applied to in other subjects such as Thermodynamics and Mathematics to help with techniques in problems. The podcasts improve my confidence in tutorials. More please!”

“I can follow the working of the examples in my own time. I am able to pause and go over sections as I please. Having someone explain the answers is more useful than written examples.”

“it's really good and helpful!! should be applied to other modules as well especially thermodynamics! :)”

Reflexions/Discussion

• Students like it! Should we not do podcasts for everything we want to teach?

• It is relatively time consuming, is it worth it?

• Are we simply spoon-feeding our students?

• What activities can we have to support this type of material for better learning?

• Any other things you can think of.......


using podcasts to demonstrate the use of graphical/numerical techniques in chemical engineering

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