Peer assisted instruction and VLE in enquiry based learning in chemical engineering

The benefits of Enquiry based learning in combination with peer assisted instruction and supported by a range of appropriate software tools is demonstrated in this contribution. Fundamental concepts, such as mass and energy balances and process flow sheet diagrams are essential for professional chemical engineer formation and the methodology described is shown to improve the performance of students in assessment as well as increase their satisfaction. Responses to anonymous student questionnaires and feedback through student-staff committee are supplemented by a quantitative comparison of examination marks to demonstrate the benefits of this approach.