Development of an innovative learning methodology aiming to optimise learners spatial conception in an online mechanical CAD module during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic struck humanity in February 2020. Closures of educational institutions, worldwide, resulted to the creation of emergency remote teaching environments as a substitute to face to face learning. The disruption caused in the academic community has stimulated innovative learning methods within all levels of the educational sector. New parameters affecting knowledge transmission are getting involved while students follow courses apart on a common virtual learning environment. This research is based on a first-semester Mechanical Engineering CAD module in tertiary education. A learning strategy has been applied by reforming the traditional face-to-face leaning mode to a fully remote learning environment. The methods applied have been tested using statistical analysis and have shown to contribute significantly in students' spatial perception in 2-Dimentional Drawings. The outcomes of this research reveal a novel teaching strategy that improved students' academic achievements in CAD during the lockdown. Specific aspects can be considered sustainable on their return back to normality.