GenAI in the classroom: Customized GPT roleplay for process safety education

Abstract

This paper outlines innovative pedagogical approaches in chemical engineering safety education, utilising three key strategies: (1) Integration of the direct experiences of experienced professional engineers to teach expertise-aligned process safety case studies; (2) Shifting from traditional short oral presentations to more comprehensive and dynamic ‘engineering meeting’ formats to drive constructive student learning; and (3) The use of Generative AI to enhance (1) and (2), with cost/time scalability, improved student access and by accommodating greater learning-style diversity. Evaluation of these educational innovations is performed through a mixed-methods approach and reveals positive impacts on student learning and engagement. The paper provides a detailed outline of classroom implementation, with supporting resources, for straightforward integration by other academics.