Methodology
InnoLAB pursues a cooperative and step-by-step approach to the development of innovative teaching materials for chemical and process engineering. The aim is to combine current research results, industrial challenges and modern didactic concepts in a meaningful way.
First, in close cooperation between scientists and industry representatives, practice-relevant processes are identified and prepared as technical case studies. These are based on current developments in areas such as sustainability, digitalization, life cycle analysis and process intensification. Interactive digital benchmarks make it possible to simulate real process decisions and directly understand the effects.
In the next step, this technical content will be transferred into an innovative didactic framework concept together with teachers from various departments. Suitable methods for promoting teamwork, creativity and critical thinking will be developed in joint workshops and an international teaching school. Particular emphasis is placed on international collaboration and the use of digital tools.
The developed materials are then tested with students - both as part of an international summer school lasting several days and in a digital chemical engineering hackathon. The students work on the case studies in mixed teams and apply their knowledge in a practical way. In the process, technical skills are trained as well as interdisciplinary key qualifications.
Finally, the project results are disseminated in a targeted manner: via scientific publications, a book publication, conference contributions, webinars and social media channels. All materials are made openly accessible in order to promote their reuse and further development.
A continuous exchange between the partner institutions and systematic feedback loops ensure that all results meet the high quality standards of higher education and can be used flexibly in different learning contexts.