Qualitative inquiry into the effects of visualization on high school chemistry students' learning process of molecular structure

CHED 447

Sheila R. Vaidya, sheila.rao.vaidya@drexel.edu, Department of Education, Drexel University, 15 S. 33rd Street, 6-222, Philadelphia, PA 19104 and Susan Deratzou, susan.deratzou@drexel.edu, Department of Science, Radnor Township School District, 130 King of Prussia Road, Radnor, PA 19087.
This research studies the process of high school chemistry students visualizing chemical structures and its role in learning chemical bonding and molecular structure. Minimal research exists with high school chemistry students and more research is necessary. Using visualization tests, a learning style inventory, and observations through a case study design, this study found visual learners performed better, but needed more practice and training. Finally, implications for teaching of chemistry, students learning chemistry, curriculum, and research for the field of chemical education are discussed.
 

Research in Chemical Education
1:30 PM-4:55 PM, Wednesday, August 22, 2007 Seaport -- Constitution Room, Oral

Division of Chemical Education

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