Active learning in environmental engineering: Combining interactive platforms and project-based approaches to boost engagement and academic performance

This work examines the application of active learning methodologies, including interactive platforms and project-based learning (PBL), in the subject “Bases de la Ingeniería Ambiental” (Fundamentals of Environmental Engineering, FEE) at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. Over five academic years (2...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Martínez de Pedro, Zahara, Álvarez Montero, Ariadna, Casas de Pedro, José Antonio, Muñoz García, Macarena
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
Repositorio:Biblos-e Archivo. Repositorio Institucional de la UAM
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:repositorio.uam.es:10486/729940
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/10486/729940
https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ece.2025.09.002
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Active learning
student response systems
project-based learning
gamification in engineering education
student engagement and academic
performance
Química
Descripción
Sumario:This work examines the application of active learning methodologies, including interactive platforms and project-based learning (PBL), in the subject “Bases de la Ingeniería Ambiental” (Fundamentals of Environmental Engineering, FEE) at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. Over five academic years (2019/20–2023/24), student response systems (SRSs) such as Kahoot! and Edpuzzle were implemented to foster participation and improve conceptual understanding through gamified quizzes and video-based problem-solving. Additionally, PBL was introduced to promote hands-on learning, teamwork, and critical thinking. The intervention involved approximately 130 students per academic year. Comparative analysis of academic performance showed an increase in average final grades from 4.81 (pre-intervention period) to 5.62 in the two most recent academic years, along with higher scores in continuous assessment activities. Student satisfaction indicators remained consistently high, with institutional surveys showing no negative deviations even during pandemic-related disruptions. Professors reported a positive perception of the methodology, highlighting improved student engagement without loss of control over class dynamics. These findings support the value of combining SRS tools and PBL as a robust framework to enhance motivation and academic achievement in environmental engineering education