Teaching Sprinkler Irrigation Engineering by a Spreadsheet Tool

Abstract

Since being released 40 years ago, computer spreadsheets have proven to be worthwhile for use in educational contexts. There is plenty of evidence for this in practically every scientific discipline and engineering field. In view on this fact, the present work exposes a didactical resource, named the sprinkler irrigation tool, developed in Excel® spreadsheet licensed by 2018 Microsoft©. The objective of this tool is to offer an alternative to students in irrigation engineering, particularly for those training in the design of sprinkler irrigation systems so they can develop their theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired in laboratory and field experiments. The main findings reported in this paper address well-agreed methodologies for evaluating radial patterns of precipitation rates, diameter distribution frequency, ballistic simulation of water drops’ movement through air, kinetic energy, and performance indicators as part of the core parameters of efficient irrigation system management. This computing tool provides outcomes in tabular and graphical formats that are consistent with those found in studies previously published in specialized literature on related topics. Likewise, spreadsheets have been proven to be adequate pedagogical instruments on the path to achieving meaningful learning; however, this assertion still needs to be confirmed through a rigorous study of students who have used the developed tool.