Off-campus problem-based learning: approach in paper or computer-assisted? - A experience in atmospheric pollution

Off-campus activities have taken on special importance in the new context of the non-contact teaching of engineering. This study investigates the effectiveness of several educational materials for problem-based learning in an Aerospace Engineering degree offered at Polytechnic University of Valencia. The activities based on the use of paper documents were compared to exercises performed through educational platforms with specific multimedia material or obtained from the Internet. The comparison criteria are the ability to solve professional cases, the development of skills associated with selective information search and the acquisition of scientific-technical language. It was concluded that the learning outcoming, student satisfaction and used time depends on both the format (paper or electronic) and the type of activity. The use of computer provides best results for open-questions or activities of information seeking.