Learning module of PEM fuel cells

Abstract

Virtual Reality and Project-Based Interdisciplinary Learning are powerful tools for multisensory teaching. This style of teaching aims to enhance learning by using imagery and haptics to represent and study concepts and notions to offer students a broader perspective over systems integration while exploring fundamental notions of the topics studied. Both undergraduate and graduate students explored the VR technology (engine) and developed the framework for a learning module that will present fundamental notions in renewable energy sources, using scenarios based on physical experiments. The major tasks described are the description of the developmental platform and the modeling of the VR framework as applied to a fuel cell. Students explore concepts as parametric characterization of the system as well as thermochemical characterization. VR technology will enable students to explore new ways to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing information retention, and promoting critical thinking.