Using energy modules to introduce sustainable engineering and improve retention of chemical engineering undergraduate students

Abstract

In the present economy, state appropriations are beginning to be tied more closely with student retention and graduation. This can have a big impact on engineering programs in particular, where student engagement can be an important component in improving retention. At Mississippi State University, we are using active learning with energy modules for hydrogen production or hydrogen use in fuel cells, solar energy, and alternative energy carriers in the classroom. The introduction of energy technology provides a vehicle to apply the chemical engineering fundamentals to broad problems in sustainable energy production and use. This is particularly helpful in chemical engineering, as most of our majors choose chemical engineering as a career so that they can help others. This paper describes the use of energy modules in the chemical engineering curriculum at Mississippi State University. The paper outlines efforts in the freshman seminar course, mass and energy balances course, the mass transfer / separations course, the engineering materials course, and the chemical engineering reactor design course, as well as an elective course on hydrogen energy fundamentals. The modules illustrated in this paper show a connection between traditional chemical engineering fundamentals and applications to real world energy problems, such as how a chemical engineer can impact both domestic energy independence and on worldwide energy availability. In addition, students become more aware of the stewardship of energy resources. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2013.