Teaching analytic hierarchy process (AHP) in undergraduate chemical engineering courses

Authors

Michael Angelo B. Promentilla, De La Salle University, Manila
Kathleen B. Aviso, De La Salle University, Manila
Rochelle Irene G. Lucas, De La Salle University, Manila
Luis F. Razon, De La Salle University, Manila
Raymond Girard R. Tan, De La Salle University, Manila

College

Gokongwei College of Engineering

Department/Unit

Chemical Engineering

Document Type

Article

Source Title

Education for Chemical Engineers

Volume

23

First Page

34

Last Page

41

Publication Date

4-1-2018

Abstract

Although selection problems are often encountered in engineering practice, rigorous decision analysis techniques remain underutilized in undergraduate chemical engineering education. In particular, the conventional chemical engineering curriculum lacks a strong foundation in such methods, despite the fact that other quantitative tools (e.g., mathematical programming, process simulation, etc.) are already well-integrated within the sub-area of process systems engineering (PSE). In this paper, we discuss the integration of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA) tool within the undergraduate chemical engineering curriculum at De La Salle University. We discuss the use of AHP methodology in modules such as Process Equipment Selection and Design and in an elective course on Energy and the Environment. We discuss representative sample problems, experiences in the teaching of AHP, as well as recommendations for effective introduction of the topic. The methodology provides a framework to induce metacognition during decision-making to ensure rigor and consistency. This skill finds application not only in decision-making problems such as equipment selection, project selection and plant design but also in sustainability assessment. Based on feedback from students, there is significant appreciation of AHP as a useful tool for their future professional practice.© 2018 The Institution of Chemical Engineers

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Digitial Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/j.ece.2018.05.002

Recommended Citation

Promentilla, M. B., Aviso, K. B., Lucas, R. G., Razon, L. F., & Tan, R. R. (2018). Teaching analytic hierarchy process (AHP) in undergraduate chemical engineering courses. Education for Chemical Engineers, 23, 34-41. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ece.2018.05.002

Disciplines

Chemical Engineering

Keywords

Multiple criteria decision making; Chemical engineering—Study and teaching

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