The use of spreadsheets in an undergraduate course in process engineering is analyzed mainly as a tool to solve optimization problems with iteration cycles in the calculation of the variables involved and as an introductory approach for the basic aspects of process simulators. The significance of using routines such as Solver in Excel to solve problems is clear. The advantages of using spreadsheets are analyzed in relation to other systems available for simulation and optimization problems. The way to add new functions to the spreadsheets used in the course are also considered, as well as the convenience of adopting certain norms when posing the problems.

An evaluation method of educational software has been developed. It was derived from users' answers, grouped in three different categories—contents and teaching methodology; program design characteristics; and user reaction—and a fourth group encompassing more general considerations. This method allows dependable evaluation of the software, as well as detection of particular situations and specific usage among its users. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 5: 181–188, 1997

The use of spreadsheets in an undergraduate course in process engineering is analyzed mainly as a tool to solve optimization problems with iteration cycles in the calculation of the variables involved and as an introductory approach for the basic aspects of process simulators. The significance of using routines such as Solver in Excel to solve problems is clear. The advantages of using spreadsheets are analyzed in relation to other systems available for simulation and optimization problems. The way to add new functions to the spreadsheets used in the course are also considered, as well as the convenience of adopting certain norms when posing the problems. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 7: 227–234, 1999

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