The Simulation Based Learning (SBL): an Engineering Course on Salinity Forecasting of the Chao Phraya River Using Mathematical Modeling together with on-site Fieldwork

บทคัดย่อ

          The objectives of this study are to 1. To develop a simulation-based learning medium for students to be able to gain better and deeper knowledge and to actually pactice on skills by applying basic mathematics to real-life situations related to CVE4503, a water supply engineering and sanitary system course; 2.To familiarize students  with problem solving processes skills through the newly acquired knowledge, Simulation Based Learning (SBL) using mathematical modeling together with on-site Fieldwork; and 3. To assess  how efficient this particular learning medium could benefit the students and prompt them to accept the SBL learning medium.
          Instead of targeting a specific population sampling group commonly used, this research intentionally opts for a targeted group of 28 third-year engineering undergraduate students from Ramkhamhaeng University who registered in the CVE4503 course.
          The researcher used the following tools: mathematical models, exercises, assessment modules, and a form evaluating the acceptance of the innovative SBL to collect research data; to work on and study at the site of the Fieldwork.
          The process of analyzing the data consisted of statistics percentage, mean, S.D., and (Process - E1/Product - E2: E1/E2). The result shown from using the SBL medium was effective as seen from the 93.00/84.07 score which was much higher than the standard 80/80.
          The researcher had designed a post-test to verify the efficiency of the SBL medium anticipating the average score to be at 80%. However, the score turned out to be 95.36%.
          The post-test assessment from students showed a high level of satisfaction with the SBL medium, 4.05/5.00. Therefore, the medium was demonstrated to be effective for active learning in future classes.