A Web Based Reactor Design Game Used In A Freshman Introduction to Chemical Engineering Course

A WEB BASED REACTOR DESIGN GAME USED IN A FRESHMAN INTRODUCTION TO CHEMICAL ENGINEERING COURSE

By Nese Orbey and Molly Clay

This paper describes a project to effectively introduce first year students to chemical engineering. We did this of as a part of an introductory freshman class at University of Massachusetts Lowell using a computer based game developed by Professor TWF Russell (http://www.mht.che.udel.edu). Sixty students were enrolled in the class. Key concepts were introduced during a lecture hour. The students were then split in three two hour lab groups where each student had access to a computer. Two such sessions were required.

The concept of taking a technology from laboratory to manufacturing was demonstrated using this web based game emphasizing the critical need for experimental data, mathematical modeling, and design with uncertainty because of competition. The total market for the product is presented as a demand curve.

The methodology used and the results obtained will be presented and student feedback  will be discussed.