A framework for hands-on learning in chemical engineering education-Training students with the end goal in mind

Chemical engineering education aims to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on capability to solve practical problems. At Imperial College London, this is practiced via three laboratory-based courses, which span over the first three years of the undergraduate curriculum. The Foundation, Knowledge and Discovery Laboratories were designed based on Kolb's experiential learning theory as well as Vygotsky's zone of proximal development. Although these courses intend to challenge students, appropriate scaffolding is in place to ensure a satisfactory learning experience across the spectrum of abilities. Assessment and survey results show that all students were capable of meeting the learning goals (>96% achieving satisfactory to excellent results in academic years 2014-2016), while a large majority is satisfied with the courses (>80% in academic years 2014-2016). The design and implementation of these courses are discussed to promote the exchange of good practices within the higher education community. (C) 2019 Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.