This planning grant to Louisiana State University (LSU) aims to reform the Chemical Engineering Curriculum by adding Manufacturing/Process Dynamics/Process Control Emphasis to the undergraduate curriculum.
LSU intends to revamp the curriculum to emphasize problem-based learning using industrial process simulation, control and optimization packages. Some of these will be based on seven new pilot-plant facilities, and some will be based on two LSU cogeneration facilities (one existing, one now under construction), which are located adjacent to Chemical Engineering. The new type of lab experience will pair senior-level students with more inexperienced students in open-ended assignments based on process simulation, dynamics and control. The seniors can help introduce the newcomers to the software packages; the newcomers will have to implement new operating strategies or control systems developed by the seniors. There will be benefits to both groups: training in communication and networking for the seniors, and a better grasp of the software for the novice students prior to entering the classes where they must program using the software.