Self-tutoring for advanced problems in freshman chemistry

CHED 471

Gopal Subramaniam, gopal.subramaniam@qc.cuny.edu1, Jose L. Zambrana, jzambrana@qc.edu2, and Harry D. Gafney, hgafney@qc1.qc.edu2. (1) Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Queens College-CUNY, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11367, (2) Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Queens College -CUNY, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367
Multi-concept problems remain a significant challenge to freshman chemistry students. We have developed a self-tutoring method utilizing video taped solution to such problems that are delivered via web in a step-wise format. The method differs from other methods in the following: (i) topics are not book-specific, (ii) addresses problems that are generally multi-concept, (iii) instructor-led solution broken down to steps starting with a strategic discussion of the problem statement, and (iv) digitized step-wise solution available as sequential video hints only when the student fails to give a correct answer on their own at each step. The software interface also provides simple concept links and paired problems with instant feedback on their answers. The system has been designed with urban commuter students in mind although it can be useful to any student because of the anytime anywhere availability of the web-based resources.
 

General Papers
8:00 AM-10:35 AM, Thursday, August 23, 2007 Seaport -- Constitution Room, Oral

Division of Chemical Education

The 234th ACS National Meeting, Boston, MA, August 19-23, 2007