CHED 100 |
| Solution of real-world acid-base chemistry problems can be cumbersome and computational tools are necessary to simplify the solution process. There is, however, the danger of compromising student learning with computer program usage and this concern is best addressed during computational system design. We present a novel software design where the instructional and computational components are integrated into a PowerPoint presentation. Computations are performed dynamically using embedded Flash animations and provide an excellent interface for user interaction. Instructional information relevant to the computation is provided adjacent to the animation which promotes student learning by providing complete computational transparency. This novel software design concept was used to develop computational tools for solving equilibrium chemistry problems including ionic strength and activity coefficient calculations, ionization fraction estimation, equilibrium constant calculations and construction of distribution diagrams for mono and multiprotic systems. All instructional information and associated calculations have been grouped into a single PowerPoint file for user convenience. In addition to reinforcing important concepts, these programs simplify lengthy computations and can help bring complex real-world problems to the acid-base chemistry classroom. The PowerPoint file is available free of charge for academic use from the authors. |
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General Posters
7:30 PM-9:30 PM, Sunday, 10 September 2006 Moscone Center -- Hall D, Poster
Division of Chemical Education |