Premium
Simulating dynamically: A longitudinal and practical simulation approach for students
Author(s) -
Gazil Olivier,
Gosselin Mathieu,
TanguayRioux Fabrice,
Farand Patrice,
Tavares Jason R.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
computer applications in engineering education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.478
H-Index - 29
eISSN - 1099-0542
pISSN - 1061-3773
DOI - 10.1002/cae.22167
Subject(s) - workbook , computer science , key (lock) , curriculum , process (computing) , comprehension , animation , simulation , interface (matter) , software engineering , human–computer interaction , multimedia , programming language , computer graphics (images) , operating system , psychology , pedagogy , accounting , bubble , maximum bubble pressure method , business
Students identified a lack of practical applications for the theoretical concepts taught as a key weakness for some classes in our chemical engineering undergraduate program. We have thus implemented a new simulation tool to help overcome these weaknesses: A dynamic process simulator based on a carbon dioxide capture plant. Aspen Simulation Workbook, a recent tool developed by AspenTech © is used in a novel approach to implement a user‐friendly interface based on Microsoft Excel. Exercises incorporating the use of the simulator were developed to cover the main concepts taught in chemical engineering. Longitudinal implementation of the simulator within the curriculum recently began and should be completed over the coming semesters. Student and instructor feedback was collected by means of surveys. Based on the information collected, using the simulator improves comprehension of key concepts taught throughout the curriculum. Feedback analysis also helped identifiy needs for future exercises and avenues for improvement.