JKKP Experience in Conducting Integrated Project since Session 2006/2007

Starting Semester I Session 2005/2006, the education curriculum at the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia has changed the approach into Outcome Based Education (OBE). This approach requires students to take an active role in the learning process and encourage each course lecturers adopting the innovative delivery methods such as Project Based Learning (PBL), Project Oriented Problem Based Learning (POPBL), Active Learning (AL), Cooperative Learning (CL) and others. For integration purposes, the Department of Chemical and Process Engineering has taken an initiative to implement an Integrated Project for student of Year II and III since Session 2006/2007. This project combines three or four compulsory courses offered in the department in each semester. The purpose of this integration is to reduce the burden on students, as if they are not combined, each course may have its own project. It also prevents the students to see the courses taught in isolation. In addition, it also can help to integrate the chemical or biochemical engineering knowledge they have learned. Integrated project given to the student is about chemical or biochemical engineering problems which have an open solution. This approach allows the application of professional skills of students such as leadership and team work, and learn to search for the latest information through life-long learning process. In addition, student achievement in completing the Integrated Project are measured and assessed through presentations and reports that emphasize the application of soft skills such as self-confidence, oral and written communication skills. Based on the feedback from students and evaluators, the implementation of this Integrated Project has proven the positive effects on teaching and learning courses.