(209g) Integrating Simulation-Based Teaching in Chemical Engineering Curriculum to Prepare Students with Plant Operation, Safety, Process Control, and Problem-Solving Skills

Chemical engineering processes are complex, involving a high degree of automation and control. However, the overall performance of a chemical plant does not solely rely on engineering design and optimization. Operational factors such as teamwork, communication, human supervision, plant operations, and process troubleshooting play a crucial role in determining the profitability and safety of the plant.

This study introduces a framework designed to integrate simulation-based teaching into the chemical engineering curriculum. The approach offers students the opportunity to develop skills in process operation and troubleshooting, while also improving their understanding of the fundamental concepts related to chemical plant operations.

Several process modules are taught, and the assessment of student learning is done using student surveys and exams. It was found that teaching using virtual process simulation modules was an effective way to introduce chemical process equipment and processes at the early stage of the undergraduate program. The students felt that working as a team in operating and troubleshooting the process modules improved their teamwork and communication skills