A supplemental course to improve performance in introductory chemistry

Abstract

The supplemental course presents a unique opportunity to teach effective methods for learning chemistry, to help students learn to think the way chemists think about their subject matter, and to apply these methods immediately to the subject matter of the parent course; includes format, objectives, approach, content, assignments, and results of the course.

Use of Simultaneous-Synchronized Macroscopic, Microscopic, and Symbolic Representations To Enhance the Teaching and Learning of Chemical Concepts

“…Studies have shown that students who have the ability to visualize chemical phenomena at the molecular level develop good conceptual understanding (7)(8)(9). Turner (10) notes that many students who don't succeed in chemistry courses "have never learned to visualize chemical systems or to make drawings to help solve problems". Computer technology not only allows the modeling of how experts think microscopically but also allows the simultaneous representation of microscopic and macroscopic views of the same phenomena.…”

A formação inicial em química baseada em conceitos representados por meio de modelos mentais

“…[22][23][24][25][26] Por meio da utilização desses instrumentos didáticos, é possível proporcionar uma aprendizagem mais eficiente e interessante para os alunos.…”

General chemistry workshop attendance and improved student performance

“…Many students feel they have a better understanding after practicing on old test problems. As pointed out by Turner (1), the presence of students who earn A and B grades in the workshop removes any perception of the workshop as remedial and helps integrate all workshop students into the chemistry course.…”