Problem-based learning applied to Chemical Engineering. Bibliometric analysis: comparative study of Scopus and WoS

Convergence to the European Higher Education Area requires the introduction of new teaching methodologies to promote self-learning, the acquisition of professional skills and the transmission of knowledge. Problem-ased Learning is a method of educational innovation that allows students to collectively acquire, structure and synthesize new knowledge that they apply to real cases. Problem-based learning applied to Chemical Engineering began at the end of the 20th century, however, the application of this kind of methodology is not completely generalized. This paper presents a bibliometric study on the use of problem-based learning in Chemical Engineering by two main databases (Scopus and WoS). A total of 113 and 89 documents have been found in Scopus and WoS, respectively. There is a higher prevalence of participation in congresses compared to other publication media and the majority language is English. The largest scientific production on the analyzed field is found in the United States, although there is widespread interest in the five continents. The analysis of the keywords shows a growing interest in student motivation and active teaching aimed at key practical and professional aspects in the teaching of Chemical Engineering.