Abstract:

Since active learning techniques can have a significant impact on the learning process of students, their use in the classroom is extremely important. Nowadays, in the framework of active learning, the implementation of numerous pedagogical methodologies in bachelor’s degrees helps to attract and promote students' motivation and interest in learning. Recently, it has become increasingly popular to use game mechanics for improving pedagogical effectiveness and reinforcing information acquisition. Through these tools, students can quickly become immersed in a new topic and achieve higher levels of performance.

Simulated learning environments can facilitate the exploration of a wide variety of scenarios and guide students through decision-making processes, which represents a valuable enhancement to traditional classroom instruction. These active learning techniques engage people, motivate action, promote learning, and solve problems through the use of game mechanics and game thinking. For this reason, this year the Chemical Technology subject design has been modified including a great variety of activities that involve different applications such as interactive slides, quizzes (Mentimeter, Quizizz), chemical processes simulators, and generating HTML5-based interactive video content.

The main aims in the design of this new approach to the subject are to:
– Introduce the students to chemical design concepts and focus on manipulating the basic concepts.
– Create an accurate scientifically-based course that allows students to solve problems as if they were practicing professionals with a more real approach and the use of simulation software.
– Utilize captivating activities that arise the student interest, show relevance to real-world issues of the subject in order to motivate and engage the students.
– Educate students about Chemical Technology and its integration into their degree.
– Incorporate systems thinking and interdisciplinary content at the nexus of chemistry, technology, and environmental science to enhance the learning outcomes.
In this context, in this study, an analysis of a course design and the feedback of the students after the course is presented. The student perceptions of this new course design have been very positive, and it can be concluded that the integration of these active learning techniques increased the students' skills within the framework of the subject.

Keywords:

Active learning techniques, student motivation, Chemical Technology.