Laboratory 3.0: Manufacturing technologies laboratory virtualization with a student-centred methodology

Albert Fabregat-Sanjuan,Rosa Pàmies-Vilà,Silvia De La Flor López,Francesc Ferrando Piera

doi:10.3926/jotse.249

Abstract

This paper presents a blended-learning strategy for improving the teaching method applied in the laboratory subject Manufacturing Technologies. The teaching method has been changed from a predominantly teacher-centred to an active learning system with a student-centred focus and e-learning activities. In face-to-face classes, a game-based learning platform has been used. This methodology ensured engaging classes at the same time that provided a useful live feedback for students and teachers. The virtualization of the laboratory was achieved by two different e-learning activities, self-assessment tasks and video clips. These e-learning tools have been used not only to improve the students’ learning but also to enhance their motivation. The results from academic outputs show a significant improvement after the new blended learning method is applied. Moreover, a student satisfaction survey shows the positive impact of the methodology on the students’ engagement and motivation.

Highlights

The laboratory subjects that are part of the Mechanical Engineering bachelor’s degree from the Rovira i Virgili University are mainly focused on teaching the industrial procedures and experimental techniques through a series of theoretical and practical sessions
The self-assessment tasks to be done after the practical session are useful for finding out what the students have learned on the session and serve as a guide when preparing for the final oral exam
Regarding the students’ perception of the video clips, 96% of those surveyed believed that the videos helped them a lot or quite a bit to better understand the practical sessions, 76% thought they helped a lot or quite a bit to prepare for the final oral exam and 70% of students thought the videos helped them a lot or quite a bit to prepare for the partial exams

Summary

Introduction

The laboratory subjects that are part of the Mechanical Engineering bachelor’s degree from the Rovira i Virgili University are mainly focused on teaching the industrial procedures and experimental techniques through a series of theoretical and practical sessions (laboratory). Because of the aforementioned before, the objective of the new learning system was to create a learning methodology that engage and motivate students to the subject in order to improve the academic results. Some of these new e-learning activities would generate an individual weekly mark for each student and help them to remember the practical sessions for the oral exam.

Results

Conclusion