Abstract:

This paper describes how to apply an Experiential Learning Activity (ELA) to show the basis of statistics concepts applied in quality control in the industry. The activity simulates a real application of a packaging line in a randomly selected production period. The activity allows the students to share an experience to build on top further superior leanings. This paper develops the experience with the instructions to guarantee its application and efficacy in the class session and describes the first results. The primary objective of this experience is to expose students to a series of statistical aspects of great application for the process management in the industry. More specifically the concepts of mean, standard deviation, variability, number of defects or process capability. The experience serves as an initiator to explore more complex quality concepts that can be applied in the industrial field. Results indicate that students were significantly more familiar with the concepts using ELA than with a traditional lecture.

Keywords:

Experiential learning, critical thinking, simulation, quality control.