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Innovative teaching methods for engineering students

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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

First wind turbine components arrive as LNG project moves ahead

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THE FIRST ship carrying major components for Dragon LNG’s new onshore wind turbines docked at Pembroke Port last week, marking the start of physical deliveries for the multi-million-pound renewable energy project.

The Maltese-registered general cargo vessel Peak Bergen berthed at Pembroke Dock on Wednesday 26th November, bringing tower sections and other heavy components for the three Enercon turbines that will eventually stand on land adjacent to the existing gas terminal at Waterston.

A second vessel, the Irish-flagged Wilson Flex IV, has arrived in Pembroke Port today  (Thursday) carrying the giant rotor blades.

The deliveries follow a successful trial convoy on 25 November, when police-escorted low-loader trailers carried dummy loads along the planned route from the port through Pembroke, past Waterloo roundabout and up the A477 to the Dragon LNG site.

Dragon LNG’s Community and Social Performance Officer, Lynette Round, confirmed the latest movements in emails to the Herald.

“The Peak Bergen arrived last week with the first components,” she said. “We are expecting another delivery tomorrow (Thursday) onboard the Wilson Flex IV. This will be blades and is currently showing an ETA of approximately 03:30.”

The £14.3 million project, approved by Welsh Ministers last year, will see three turbines with a combined capacity of up to 13.5 MW erected on company-owned land next to the LNG terminal. Once operational – expected in late 2026 – they will generate enough electricity to power the entire site, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The Weather conditions were favourable for the arrival of the Wilson Flex IV, which was tracking south of the Smalls at midnight.

The abnormal-load convoys carrying the components from the port to Waterston are expected to begin early next year, subject to final police and highway approvals.

A community benefit fund linked to the project will provide for residents in nearby Waterston, Llanstadwell and Neyland.

Further updates will be issued by Dragon LNG as the Port of Milford Haven as the delivery programme continues.

Photo: Martin Cavaney

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Cardiff Airport announces special Air France flights for Six Nations

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Direct services to Paris-Charles de Gaulle launched to cater for Welsh supporters, French fans and couples planning a Valentine’s getaway

CARDIFF AIRPORT and Air France have unveiled a series of special direct flights between Cardiff (CWL) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) scheduled for February 2026.

Timed to coincide with two major dates — the Wales v France Six Nations clash on Saturday 15 February and Valentine’s weekend — the flights are designed to offer supporters and holidaymakers an easy link between the two capitals.

For travelling French rugby fans, the services provide a straightforward route into Wales ahead of match day at the Principality Stadium, when Cardiff will once again be transformed by the colour, noise and passion that accompanies one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited fixtures.

For Welsh passengers, the additional flights offer a seamless escape to Paris for Valentine’s Day, as well as opportunities for short breaks and onward travel via Air France’s wider global network.

Cardiff Airport CEO Jon Bridge said: “We’re thrilled to offer direct flights to such a vibrant and exciting city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach and giving customers fantastic travel options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are delighted to make this opportunity possible. There is more to come from Cardiff.”

Tickets are already on sale via the Air France website and through travel agents.

Special flight schedule

Paris (CDG) → Cardiff (CWL):

  • 13 February 2026: AF4148 departs 17:00 (arrives 17:30)
  • 14 February 2026: AF4148 departs 14:00 (arrives 14:30)
  • 15 February 2026: AF4148 departs 08:00 (arrives 08:30)
  • 15 February 2026: AF4150 departs 19:40 (arrives 20:10)
  • 16 February 2026: AF4148 departs 08:00 (arrives 08:30)
  • 16 February 2026: AF4150 departs 16:30 (arrives 17:00)

Cardiff (CWL) → Paris (CDG):

  • 13 February 2026: AF4149 departs 18:20 (arrives 20:50)
  • 14 February 2026: AF4149 departs 15:20 (arrives 17:50)
  • 15 February 2026: AF4149 departs 09:20 (arrives 11:50)
  • 15 February 2026: AF4151 departs 21:00 (arrives 23:30)
  • 16 February 2026: AF4149 departs 09:20 (arrives 11:50)
  • 16 February 2026: AF4151 departs 17:50 (arrives 20:20)
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Cwm Deri Vineyard Martletwy holiday lets plans deferred

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CALLS to convert a former vineyard restaurant in rural Pembrokeshire which had been recommended for refusal has been given a breathing space by planners.

In an application recommended for refusal at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Barry Cadogan sought permission for a farm diversification and expansion of an existing holiday operation through the conversion of the redundant former Cwm Deri vineyard production base and restaurant to three holiday lets at Oaklea, Martletwy.

It was recommended for refusal on the grounds of the open countryside location being contrary to planning policy and there was no evidence submitted that the application would not increase foul flows and that nutrient neutrality in the Pembrokeshire Marine SAC would be achieved within this catchment.

An officer report said that, while the scheme was suggested as a form of farm diversification, no detail had been provided in the form of a business case.

Speaking at the meeting, agent Andrew Vaughan-Harries of Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, after the committee had enjoyed a seasonal break for mince pies, said of the recommendation for refusal: “I’m a bit grumpy over this one; the client has done everything right, he has talked with the authority and it’s not in retrospect but has had a negative report from your officers.”

He said the former Cwm Deri vineyard had been a very successful business, with a shop and a restaurant catering for ‘100 covers’ before it closed two three years ago when the original owner relocated to Carmarthenshire.

He said Mr Cadogan then bought the site, farming over 36 acres and running a small campsite of 20 spaces, but didn’t wish to run a café or a wine shop; arguing the “beautiful kitchen” and facilities would easily convert to holiday let use.

He said a “common sense approach” showed a septic tank that could cope with a restaurant of “100 covers” could cope with three holiday lets, describing the nitrates issue as “a red herring”.

He suggested a deferral for further information to be provided by the applicant, adding: “This is a big, missed opportunity if we just kick this out today, there’s a building sitting there not creating any jobs.”

On the ‘open countryside’ argument, he said that while many viewed Martletwy as “a little bit in the sticks” there was already permission for the campsite, and the restaurant, and the Bluestone holiday park and the Wild Lakes water park were roughly a mile or so away.

He said converting the former restaurant would “be an asset to bring it over to tourism,” adding: “We don’t all want to stay in Tenby or the Ty Hotel in Milford Haven.”

While Cllr Nick Neuman felt the nutrients issue could be overcome, Cllr Michael Williams warned the application was “clearly outside policy,” recommending it be refused.

A counter-proposal, by Cllr Tony Wilcox, called for a site visit before any decision was made, the application returning to a future committee; members voting seven to three in favour of that.

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