Implementation of Blended Learning Method in Chemical Engineering Course

Abstract

The presence of online learning platforms, namely LinkedIn Learning, edX, Udemy, and Coursera has served as an appropriate tool for learners to equip themselves with new skills or knowledge. Such a situation is driven sharply by the presence of the ongoing pandemic that makes it feasible to obtain knowledge through online means. However, online learning platform often demonstrates undesirable challenges that limit the effectiveness of the learners in grasping the knowledge. For instance, the motivation of the learners to grasp the knowledge is challenged by the difficulty level of the course that in most circumstances does not much well with the learners. Besides, the learning materials provided under such platforms often do not align well with the intended learning outcomes that are presented. Thus, to ensure that the university curriculum is well-mapped with the current trend of the learning environment, the blueprint that was set by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) Malaysia has set the requirement that at least 70% of the university courses are offered as blended learning. Hence, in this approach, we have attempted the blended learning approach into two chemical engineering subjects (Process Heat Transfer and Separation Process II) throughout the twelve-week lecture and tutorial sessions. Subsequently, additional improvement plans will also be proposed to enhance this approach in future semesters.