Open Ended Projects (OEPs): A Tool to Improve Experimental Skills Among Undergraduate Students of Chemical Engineering

Abstract

programs, as they offer opportunities to reinforce theoretical concepts of individual unit processes and operations taught in almost all parts of the course. An open-ended project (OEP) is a type of assignment that does not have a predetermined outcome or a fixed set of instructions. Such OEPs were used as an alternative to the traditional ‘Experimental Style’ or ‘Do as Directed’ method of laboratory teaching learning process. The overall aim was to improve the student experience in practical classes of chemistry laboratory. To facilitate this, all third semester chemical engineering students were divided into small groups of two or three. Then each group of students was assigned a unique OEP title and given ample time to complete their projects while adhering to experimental protocols. At the end of the semester, students were assessed for changes in their learning behavior in relation to the curriculum and course outcomes. The results clearly indicated that this teaching method more accurately reflected real-life problem-solving techniques. This means that students were more regularly attending classes and exhibited a more positive and engaged attitude compared to past cohorts. This increased motivation and interest in the coursework, resulting in better attendance and a more positive classroom environment.