CHEN 3810: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING LABORATORY
Description: The course emphasizes active resolution of open-ended experimental problems involving optimization, design, and use of chemical engineering equipment, products, or materials. Analytical, oral presentation, written report, and cooperative problem-solving skills are stressed in the context of chemical engineering practice. Projects span both classical (e.g. process control, scale up, membrane separations) and modern (e.g. surface engineering, alternative energy sources, bioseparations) topics. Safety awareness is integrated throughout the course.
Level and Credits: Senior Level, one 4-hour laboratory session per week, 4 credits.
Course Objectives Summary Table
|
Educational Objective (Outcome) |
ABET 2000 |
Implementation |
Assessment |
Improvement |
Timetable |
|
Carry out experimental design to meet specific objectives |
a, b, c, e |
Projects are posed in terms of objectives, not procedures |
Evaluation of studentsÕ experimental plan |
Assessment of initial results used as feedback for devising improved experimental procedure |
ongoing |
|
Learn use of laboratory apparatus |
b, k |
Operation of laboratory equipment |
In-lab evaluation |
Practica added on assembly and testing of experimental apparatus |
ongoing |
|
Apply cooperative teamwork approaches to learning and achievement of goals |
d |
Student teams of three design, carry out, analyze, and present projects |
In-lab evaluation; oral and written presentations |
No change |
ongoing |
|
Synthesize and validate knowledge from prior courses |
a, b |
Concepts from prior coursework are integrated into data analysis and experimental design |
Evaluation of experimental plan; oral and written reports |
Experiments redesigned to emphasize concepts from coursework |
ongoing |
|
Develop oral and written communication skills |
d, g, k |
Results of each project presented orally and in written form |
Evaluation of oral and written reports |
Oral presentation content increased to 45 minutes per project to allow extensive faculty feedback |
ongoing |
|
Learn to adhere to strict safety practices |
b, f |
Discuss and enforce strict rules regarding chemical, personal, and equipment safety |
In lab evaluation |
Safety brochure and exam added |
ongoing |
According to the Program Outcomes and Assessment Criterion for accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), engineering programs must demonstrate that their graduates have:
(a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering(b) an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data(c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs(d) an ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams(e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems(f) an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility(g) an ability to communicate effectively(h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context(i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning(j) a knowledge of contemporary issues(k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.