Simplifying equations via assumptions is integral to the "engineering method." Algebraic scaling helps in teaching the engineering skill of making good assumptions. Algebraic scaling is more than a pedagogical tool. It can create a solution where one was not possible before scaling. Scaling helps in engineering proper design…

A method is presented which can be used to obtain analytical solutions for boundary value problems (BVPs) using the matrix exponential and Maple. Systems of second order, linear differential equations are expressed as two or more first order equations in matrix form, and their solutions are obtained using the matrix exponential, matrix…

Strategies are proposed that promote use of an Integrated Applied Mathematics (IAM) approach to enhance teaching of advanced problem-solving and analysis skills. Three scenarios of 1-dimensional transport processes are presented that support using Error Function analyses when considering short time/small penetration depths in finite geometries.…

This paper describes the combination of problem-based learning (PBL) and simulation tools in the chemical engineering unit operation laboratory course, focusing on heat transfer concepts using a shell-and-tube heat exchanger experiment. This approach has significantly enhanced student learning outcomes by bridging theory with practice, fostering a…

Due to the structured format of most engineering courses, the number of opportunities for engineering students to view matters differently from the traditional ways is limited. Therefore, a mandatory requirement was introduced into three engineering courses for students to propose an out of the ordinary solution to certain technical problems,…

The overall performance of a chemical plant goes beyond engineering design and optimization. Operational factors such as teamwork, communication, human oversight, and process troubleshooting are crucial in determining the plant's safety and profitability. This paper proposes the integration of simulation-based teaching into the chemical…

Molecular-, fluid- and field-dynamics simulation are becoming more mainstream tools for practicing process engineers; here, the academic community needs to pay close attention to "upskilling" demands from industry, where remote working/training emphasizes the need for sophisticated computational-engineering design tools with molecular…

We have developed an assessment of authentic problem-solving in chemical engineering, which we used to measure students' problem-solving at the beginning and end of a cornerstone design course. We measured how much problem-solving students learned, and how these students compared with data collected from seniors at the beginning of the capstone…

How is it possible to create and continuously improve a quality learning environment for our students? We present our one-year course on engineering thermodynamics as a case study in which we investigate the learning environment based on a competency model from the students' perspective. Based on the analysis of our course structure and exam…

The impact of solving novel video-inspired homework problems on learning attitudes toward chemical engineering was examined at beginning and end of an undergraduate material and energy balances course using a modified Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey instrument. Mean overall attitude of participants improved by a normalized gain…

Engineering curriculum often fails to connect content and decisions to impacts on diverse, particularly marginalized, communities. Given that integration of social justice ideas into curriculum is currently uncommon among most faculty, we provide resources in the form of a workshop to help catalyze these efforts by teaching faculty how to…

As more chemical engineering students enter careers beyond the field, students need more guidance in applying their problem solving skills to a challenges beyond the plant or refinery. Since Fall 2019, we have implemented case-based learning across our Material and Energy Balances course to help students practice chemical engineering thinking as a…

Membrane separation processes, from reverse osmosis to ultrafiltration to microfiltration, are gradually receiving more and more emphasis in undergraduate chemical engineering curricula. Of these processes, ultrafiltration tends to be the most amenable to the standard chemical engineering approach of theory development, mass and/or energy…

Project-Enhanced learning is an excellent way to facilitate student-centered learning along with traditional lecture-based learning. In this Class and Home problem, an example of Project-Enhanced learning is provided that can be used in the Mass and Energy Balances (MEB) course. The students solve this problem as part of a group while receiving…

A practical for students to experience a process plant is presented, based on operating a solvent absorption plant for carbon dioxide capture. The student must operate the plant in assigned roles that closely identify with a chemical plant environment, to achieve specific performance targets. Students must overcome technical challenges that…