Using POGIL and Odyssey to encourage student visualization in chemistry

CHED 258

Renee S. Cole, rcole@cmsu1.cmsu.edu1, Kimberly J Linenberger, kjl72790@cmsu2.cmsu.edu2, Ellen M. Matson, emm93050@cmsu2.cmsu.edu2, and Britta L Zernicke, blz80470@cmsu2.cmsu.edu2. (1) Department of Chemistry and Physics, University of Central Missouri, WC Morris 415, Warrensburg, MO 64093, (2) Department of Chemistry and Physics, Central Missouri State University, WCM 408, Warrensburg, MO 64093
The Odyssey computer program uses three-dimensional graphics and dynamics simulations in a range of activities to assist students in chemical visualization. Worksheets have been developed in a process-oriented guided inquiry format to address specific activities within Odyssey. The use of these worksheets with Odyssey is intended to help increase students' ability to visualize the particulate nature of matter and dispel common misconceptions. Misconceptions that have been targeted so far include intermolecular forces, covalent bonding and structure, phase changes, and acid strength. Questions that have been addressed with this project are a comparison of student interactions with the program with and without the use of worksheets and pairs versus individual work. Future includes analyzing the impact of the use of these activities on the development of spatial abilities and attitudes.
 

Process-Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL)
8:30 AM-11:35 AM, Monday, March 26, 2007 McCormick Place North -- Room N231, Level 2, Oral

Division of Chemical Education

The 233rd ACS National Meeting, Chicago, IL, March 25-29, 2007