Virtualization, Gamification, and Flipped Classroom in the Metallurgy Laboratory

Abstract

The pandemic forced the Metallurgy Laboratory at Fidélitas University to transition to online learning. This presented a challenge as the virtual courses required the students to practice with online simulators and professional software, however, many students lacked the theoretical and applied knowledge to use these tools effectively. To solve this, students from laboratories 3 to 6 were instructed to study the prerequisite knowledge at home, to then analyze it at the beginning of the class before the simulations. The researcher used an electronic form for collect the experiences of six immersive online laboratories that emulated similar conditions to the business environment and a visit to a company. The results show that the experience is positive and is possible to learn with virtualization, gamification and flipped classroom in the Metallurgy Laboratory. This document presents the experience of the students during four academic terms.