Business
Innovative teaching methods for engineering students
Modern education is constantly evolving, and every year new approaches emerge that change learning processes. This is especially true for students of technical specialities, where it is important not only to master theoretical knowledge but also to apply it in real life. In this article, we will look at innovative teaching methods that help technical students develop the necessary skills and achieve high academic results.
Innovations in technology have provided accessible platforms for learning, by means of online libraries and educational platforms. Other areas such as the entertainment sector have been impacted by technology as the use of online casinos has increased astronomically – some of which offer a free spin bonus.
1. Use of interactive platforms and virtual laboratories
With the development of technology, the nature of learning has changed significantly. Traditional lectures and seminars no longer meet all modern requirements, especially when it comes to technical disciplines. Virtual laboratories and interactive platforms allow students to conduct experiments, simulate different situations and gain practical skills without the need to visit physical laboratories. This approach significantly increases learning efficiency, as students can study material at their own convenience and repeat tasks without restrictions.
Advantages of interactive learning
- Accessibility: The ability to learn from anywhere, which provides flexibility in the learning process.
- Practical application: Students can test their knowledge and skills in real-world environments without the risk of damaging equipment or creating dangerous situations.
- Individualised learning: Each student is able to work at their own pace, which allows for better adaptation to different skill levels.
2. Gamification of the learning process
Gamification is the integration of game elements into the learning process, which significantly increases student motivation. Gamification makes learning not only more interesting but also more effective. By playing educational games, students retain information better, develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Key components of gamification
- Balancing complexity: Games are created in such a way that the tasks are challenging but not too difficult, which helps to develop skills.
- Rewards and points: Students receive points for completing tasks, which encourages them to reach new heights.
- Achievement system: Virtual medals and certificates help students to feel achievement and progress in their studies.
3. Project-based learning approaches
Project-based learning is another innovative method that enables students to develop critical thinking and teamwork skills. This method involves the creation of real-life projects that address current issues and challenges in the field of engineering and technology. Students work in groups to develop technical solutions, analyse data and present their research findings. This approach develops the ability to work in a team, teaches them to listen and take into account the opinions of others, and to take responsibility for the final result.
Benefits of project-based learning
- Development of practical skills: Students gain real-world experience in creating products or solutions.
- Stimulating creativity: The approach allows you to experiment and look for new ways to solve problems.
- Engagement with real-world problems: Students have the opportunity to work with actual issues, which helps prepare them for professional activities.
4. Implementation of artificial intelligence in education
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important part of education, helping to personalise the learning process and make it more effective. Thanks to machine learning algorithms, AI can adapt materials according to the level of students’ training, automatically evaluate tasks and provide recommendations for further learning. This approach facilitates faster learning and reduces the workload of teachers.
How AI helps students
- Individual approach: AI-powered platforms can tailor learning material to the needs of each student.
- Automatic grading: Assessment of tasks becomes fast and accurate.
- Virtual assistants: AI can answer students’ questions, provide additional explanations, and help them solve tasks.
5. Creating online course programmes
One of the most effective ways to learn in today’s environment is through online courses, which offer a wide range of topics and the ability to study complex technical subjects at a time convenient for students. These courses often include video lectures, interactive assignments, tests, and the opportunity to discuss the material with other participants. This format promotes independent learning and development of the discipline.
Advantages of online learning
- Accessibility: Online courses are available to students anywhere, making them convenient for learning.
- Flexibility: The ability to plan your own study time.
- Variety of materials: Videos, graphs, tests and other resources for effective learning.
6. Use of augmented reality (AR) technology
Augmented reality opens up new opportunities in teaching technical disciplines. AR allows students to see and interact with three-dimensional models, making it easier to understand complex concepts and processes. By bringing information into the real world, AR makes learning fun and interactive.
How AR is changing the learning process
- Deeper understanding of the material: Students can see and model objects and processes in three dimensions.
- Interactive learning: The technology allows you to participate in virtual experiments and research.
- Student engagement: Visualisation of material helps to keep students’ attention and interest.
7. Synergy of theory and practice
One of the key aspects of successful learning is the balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Innovative methods involve the use of simulators, virtual trainers and modelling software, which allows students to integrate their knowledge into practical tasks. This not only improves their understanding of the material, but also prepares them for real-world challenges in their future careers.
The importance of practical training
- Skills development: Hands-on training prepares students for real-world work.
- Problem solving: Students learn how to solve problems that may arise in their professional lives.
- Application of theory: Theoretical knowledge is applied in practice, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the subject.
Conclusion.
Innovative teaching methods for students of technical specialities open up new horizons in the field of education, providing a high level of interactivity, flexibility and efficiency of the learning process. The use of technologies such as interactive platforms, artificial intelligence, gamification, augmented reality and online courses creates conditions for in-depth learning and development of practical skills. These approaches give students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations, which prepares them for real challenges in their professional lives.
It is important that educational institutions actively implement these innovations and adapt their curricula to modern requirements. This approach not only increases students’ motivation but also helps them develop the competencies necessary for a successful career in high-tech industries. The integration of the latest teaching methods is becoming the key to creating a more dynamic, adaptive and effective educational environment that meets the requirements of the modern world.
Business
Tax deadline for self-employed and landlords as digital system goes live in April
Quarterly online reporting to become mandatory for higher earners under HMRC shake-up
MORE than 860,000 sole traders and landlords across the UK are being urged to prepare now for major changes to the way they report tax, with new digital rules coming into force in just two months.
From April 6, thousands of self-employed workers and property landlords earning over £50,000 a year will be required to keep digital records and submit quarterly income updates to HM Revenue & Customs under the Government’s Making Tax Digital scheme.
The changes form part of a wider overhaul designed to modernise the tax system and reduce errors.
Instead of submitting figures once a year, those affected will use approved software to record income and expenses throughout the year and send short quarterly summaries to HMRC. Officials stress these are not extra tax returns, but updates intended to spread the workload and avoid the usual January rush.
Free and paid software options are available, with the system automatically generating the figures needed for submission.
At the end of the tax year, users will still file a Self Assessment return, but most of the information will already be stored digitally.
Craig Ogilvie, HMRC’s Director of Making Tax Digital, said the move should make tax reporting simpler.
He said: “With two months to go until MTD for Income Tax launches, now is the time to act. The system is straightforward and helps reduce errors. Thousands have already tested it successfully.
“Spreading your tax admin throughout the year means avoiding that last-minute scramble to complete a tax return every January.”
More than 12,000 quarterly updates have already been submitted during a voluntary trial.
Phased rollout
The new rules will be introduced gradually:
• From April 2026 – those earning £50,000 or more
• From April 2027 – those earning £30,000 or more
• From April 2028 – those earning £20,000 or more
To ease the transition, HMRC says it will not issue penalty points for late quarterly submissions during the first 12 months.
After that, a points system will apply, with a £200 fine only triggered once four late submissions are reached.
Anyone unable to use digital tools for genuine reasons can apply for an exemption.
Tax agents and accountants are advising clients to prepare early to avoid last-minute problems.
Further guidance, webinars and sign-up details are available via GOV.UK.
Business
Bid to convert office space into chocolate factory, salon and laundrette
A CALL for the retrospective conversion of office space previously connected to a Pembrokeshire car hire business to a chocolate factory, a beauty salon and a laundrette has been submitted to county planners
In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Mr M Williams, through agent Preseli Planning Ltd, sought retrospective permission for the subdivision of an office on land off Scotchwell Cottage, Cartlett, Haverfordwest into three units forming a chocolate manufacturing, a beauty salon, and a launderette, along with associated works.
A supporting statement said planning history at the site saw a 2018 application for the refurbishment of an existing office building and a change of use from oil depot offices to a hire car office and car/van storage yard, approved back in 2019.
For the chocolate manufacturing by ‘Pembrokeshire Chocolate company,’ as part of the latest scheme it said: “The operation comprises of manufacturing of handmade bespoke flavoured chocolate bars. Historically there was an element of counter sales but this has now ceased. The business sales comprise of online orders and the delivery of produce to local stockist. There are no counter sales from the premises.”
It said the beauty salon “offers treatments, nail services and hairdressing,” operating “on an appointment only basis, with the hairdresser element also offering a mobile service”. It said the third unit of the building functions as a commercial laundrette and ironing services known as ‘West Coast Laundry,’ which “predominantly provides services to holiday cottages, hotels and care homes”.
The statement added: “Beyond the unchanged access the site has parking provision for at least 12 vehicles and a turning area. The building now forms three units which employ two persons per unit. The 12 parking spaces, therefore, provide sufficient provision for staff.
“In terms of visiting members of the public the beauty salon operates on an appointment only basis and based on its small scale can only accommodate two customers at any one time. Therefore, ample parking provision exists to visitors.
“With regard to the chocolate manufacturing and commercial laundrette service these enterprises do not attract visitors but do attract the dropping off laundry and delivery of associated inputs. Drop off and collections associated with the laundry services tend to fall in line with holiday accommodation changeover days, for example Tuesday drop off and collections on the Thursday.
“With regard to the chocolate manufacturing ingredients are delivered by couriers and movements associated with this is also estimated at 10 vehicular movements per week.”
The application will be considered by county planners at a later date.
Business
First Minister criticised after ‘Netflix’ comment on struggling high streets
Government announces 15% support package but campaigners say costs still crushing hospitality
PUBS, cafés and restaurants across Wales will receive extra business rates relief — but ministers are facing criticism after comments suggesting people staying home watching Netflix are partly to blame for struggling high streets.
The Welsh Government has announced a 15% business rates discount for around 4,400 hospitality businesses in 2026-27, backed by up to £8 million in funding.
Announcing the package, Welsh Government Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford said: “Pubs, restaurants, cafés, bars, and live music venues are at the heart of communities across Wales. We know they are facing real pressures, from rising costs to changing consumer habits.
“This additional support will help around 4,400 businesses as they adapt to these challenges.”
The announcement came hours after Eluned Morgan suggested in Senedd discussions that changing lifestyles — including more time spent at home on streaming services — were contributing to falling footfall in town centres.
The remarks prompted political backlash.
Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Jane Dodds, said: “People are not willingly choosing Netflix over the high street. They are being forced indoors because prices keep rising and wages are not.
“Blaming people for staying at home is an insult to business owners who are working longer hours just to survive.”
Industry groups say the problem runs deeper than consumer behaviour.
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) welcomed the discount but warned it would not prevent closures.
Chris Charters, CAMRA Wales director, said: “15% off for a year is only the start. It won’t fix the unfair business rates system our pubs are being crushed by.
“Welsh publicans need a permanent solution, or doors will continue to close.”
Across Pembrokeshire, traders have repeatedly told The Herald that rising energy bills, wage pressures and rates — rather than a lack of willingness to go out — are keeping customers away.
Several town centres have seen growing numbers of empty units over the past year, with independent shops and hospitality venues reporting reduced footfall outside the main tourist season.
While ministers say the relief balances support with tight public finances, business groups are calling for wider and longer-term reform.
Further debate on rates changes is expected later this year.

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