The POU course employs a semester-long, industry-relevant project that engages students in designing, prototyping, and optimizing chemical engineering processes. The curriculum integrates the Integrated Product and Process Design (DIPP) methodology, which fosters a multiscale understanding of product formulation, process engineering, and sustainability considerations. Additionally, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools and gamification elements were incorporated to enhance engagement and research capabilities.
Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from student surveys, performance assessments, and qualitative feedback to evaluate learning outcomes. The results indicate that students demonstrated consistent improvement in technical comprehension of unit operations, teamwork, and adaptability to real-world challenges. Notably, communication skills showed significant gains, with a structured writing and visualization curriculum leading to measurable improvements in technical documentation, poster presentations, and professional discourse.
The implementation of GenAI tools, guided by the Artificial Intelligence Assessment Scale (AIAS), positively influenced students’ literature review depth and research methodologies. Furthermore, gamification strategies sustained high engagement levels, with over 90% of students reporting increased motivation. Despite initial challenges in aligning theoretical and practical components, iterative course refinements strengthened the connection between laboratory experiments, project development, and real-world problem-solving.
This study highlights a scalable and transferable model for hands-on learning in chemical engineering education. The PO-PBL approach, reinforced by interdisciplinary collaboration and technological integration, effectively bridges the gap between traditional lecture-based instruction and the experiential learning required in modern engineering practice. The findings provide valuable insights for educators seeking to enhance student engagement and competency development through laboratory, hands-on, and experiential learning strategies.