Applying a Software Learning Platform to Implement a Project Based Methodology in Teaching Mechanical Engineering to Undergraduates

The aid of learning management systems, widely spread among educational institutions, can enhance Project-Based Learning (PjBL) methodologies. Learning platforms allow self-learning and interaction with contents and materials anytime and anywhere using laptops and even mobile devices. This work explains a PjBL focused on engineering subjects conducted on a learning platform. In the frame of a "Motor and Generating Machines"course, 14 students analyzed an actual power plant run by biomass, in particular by dry olive pomace waste. The activities of the methodology are scheduled, presented, collected, and evaluated thanks to the learning platform. Through these activities, students learn and practice: power input and output estimation, biomass consumption, thermal efficiency, and power plant components. The activity includes an online test for student self-learning. The results from applying the PjBL methodology supported by a learning platform show that students easily understand the components of an actual thermal power plant and obtain most of the necessary energy parameters needed to manage the plant. However, exergy calculations are difficult for students since most of them did not correctly solve the questions related to this concept.