Project-based learning for the teaching of electromagnetism and its articulation with the learning outcomes in the mechanical engineering program at the Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña

Abstract

The Department of Basic Sciences of the Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña, implements for the teaching of physics in engineering academic programs, pedagogical strategies articulated with the provisions of the Institutional Educational Project and pedagogical model constructivist approach, with the purpose of applying the theory and principles of subjects such as electromagnetism for the resolution of problems that allow meaningful learning and the promotion of critical thinking in students of the Mechanical Engineering program, which aims to train in competencies and learning outcomes associated with the proposal of solutions to disciplinary problems, applying engineering principles, natural sciences, mathematics and technological tools. For this reason, of the four training areas of the program, the Basic Sciences Department has 21%, which represents 12 courses with subjects in physics, mathematics and chemistry, with the assignment of learning outcomes associated with problem solving, teamwork and experimentation. In order to strengthen these skills, a pedagogical strategy associated with project-based learning was defined with the teachers of subjects such as electromagnetism and machine drawing, which allows designing formative and evaluative activities that reflect the learning of concepts and principles associated with topics such as electric and magnetic fields, Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, Lorentz force, alternating current, direct current and application of motors. This research is carried out with a descriptive approach from the execution of the following stages, such as planning for the identification of the problem, formulation of objectives and review of theoretical references. The second stage is the execution of the project from designs in tools such as Solidworks and the development of a frame of reference with the main theoretical references of electromagnetism that support the classroom project. Finally, in the evaluation phase, the results are show as a solution to the proposed core problem and the project is presented in classroom socializations and faculty and program academic fairs. During semesters I and II of the year 2024, 58 students participated in the strategy, organized in 16 groups, where they completed the stages that allowed the appropriation of the topics associated with motor applications, photovoltaic system designs, application of crushers, design of drying oven and electromechanical elevator. The evaluation of the outcomes learning in the students was developed based on evaluation guides and rubrics where a high performance level of 76% and superior 7% was recorded, demonstrating a good theoretical knowledge in a practical context, achieving the expected results. The evaluation criteria associated with creativity, innovation and mastery of the subject allows the characterization of students in the different levels associated with the formative process of the students and the achievement of competencies and learning outcomes for the fulfillment of the graduation profile. The strategy allows the evaluation and relevance of the social constructivist pedagogical approach applied in the training areas of Engineering.