The process of designing an experiment is a difficult one. Students often struggle to perform such tasks as the design process places a large cognitive load on students. Scaffolding is the process of providing support for a student to allow them to complete tasks they would otherwise not have been able to complete. This study sought to investigate…

While lecture demonstrations have been conducted in chemistry classrooms for hundreds of years, little research exists to document the frequency with which such demonstrations are employed or their effect on learners' motivation and performance. A mixed-methods research study was performed, using quantitative and qualitative survey data, along…

The case for chemistry instruction based on worked examples is presented, using a contemporary model of human learning. We begin by detailing human cognitive architecture and outlining the Interactive Compensatory Model of Learning (ICML). Through the ICML, the role of motivation, deliberate practice and feedback are detailed as key variables in…

The Advanced Placement (AP) Descriptive Chemistry Website allows users to practice chemistry problems. This study involved the redesign of the Website using worked examples to enhance learner performance. The population sample for the study includes users (students and teachers) interested in learning descriptive chemistry materials. The users…

The feedback connected to some action made by a learner is discussed and the interactive compensatory model of learning (ICML) is described. It is suggested that instruction usually could be described in one of three approaches, namely direct, socially mediated, and autonomous learning.

Describes an introductory college chemistry course utilizing laboratory stations and laboratory instruction by video taped presentations. Author discusses the general operation of the laboratory, the method used in evaluating students' progress, the teaching effectiveness and economy of the station system. Results of a student questionnaire reveal…

The interactive compensatory model of learning (ICML) aims to provide a framework for understanding and improving teacher skills in creating learning environments. A research-supported way of understanding learning and to use this to generate some practical suggestions for teaching are outlined.

Discusses some problems encountered in using questionnaires to evaluate teaching performance of both instructors and programs, involving ethical policy, identified and anonymous responses, study-teacher interactions, explanation of questionnaire results, test formats, and the state of the art used. (CC)

Explores various aspects of the formula approach to faculty evaluation. Variables are explained and a sample formula is offered. (CS)

Presents the first of a series of papers discussing the major features and underlying philosophies of general college chemistry. This first paper reviews secondary level course content as well as college level general chemistry curricula. (SL)

Discusses the management and coordination of a large general chemistry program. (SL)

Suggests that academic departments reshape the intellectual climate for chemistry education as one way to ensure the future of chemistry. Current practices in chemistry and possible benefits which may result if the system is modified are examined. These benefits include better public support and understanding of chemistry. (JN)

States that college chemistry teachers can best assess a curriculum by observing how much reinforcement it provides to the students. Also urges that curricula should offer opportunities to instruct the concrete operational student in formal operational thought. (MLH)