Improving student motivation and learning in chemical engineering education: A case of scanning electron microscopy with virtual 3D technology

Nanotechnology characterization involves analysing nanoscale materials to understand their properties. Effective teaching of these techniques is crucial for students in this advancing field, especially with widespread use of digital tools and virtual learning. From a pedagogical viewpoint, the use of these tools remains grounded in constructivist and experiential learning theories, which emphasize active participation and interaction for conceptual understanding. Such approaches allow students to construct knowledge through visual exploration and simulation, complementing traditional instructions. This study explored the impact of a virtual 3D instructional lesson on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in a nanotechnology course for chemical engineering undergraduates. Using the EON-XR platform, the study assessed students' motivation and performance through Keller's Attention-Relevance-Confidence-Satisfaction (ARCS) model, paired with the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (IMMS). Results showed an overall mean score of 3.89 out of 5, with 82% of students reporting improved understanding of SEM equipment via the lesson. The majority supported using 3D technology to enhance learning, particularly for visualising complex equipment components, which is vital for engineering research and scientific understanding. The findings suggest that tailored 3D lessons positively influence students' motivation across attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction, while facilitating remote learning, and potentially leading to improved learning outcomes and experiences. • Impact assessment of mobile 3D SEM application on students’ learning motivation. • Motivation levels evaluated via attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction constructs. • Positive feedback on 3D lesson use in enhancing laboratory learning experience. • High student satisfaction with inclusion of 3D SEM application in laboratory learning. • Students agreed that 3D technology helps in remote learning of nanotechnology and materials.