ENCOURAGE LEARNING X-R CONTROL CHARTS THROUGH THE USE OF CATAPULTS

This paper develops an Experiential Learning Activity (ELA) to learn about X-R control charts. Catapults can be an interesting tool to learn about specific concepts while maintaining students motivation towards the subject. Additionally, the ELA we present allows to work transversal competences such as team work, leadership, communication or analysis skills, which are of a great interest for students development. This paper shows instructors how to build an experience adapted to the new educational requirements. We use a team activity with catapults to apply and analyse control charts: prepare and use control charts, determine when a process is out-of control or differentiate common from special sources of variability. We developed a motivating session to achieve the same learning objectives that previously where deployed in a regular session in the area. The results on the first execution of the activity are encouraging and recommend the activity as an appropriate method to reach meaningful learning. Students were able to remember the basic control charts principles and concepts after the session and to evoke related aspects in ulterior activities