Technology in the organic classroom: Clickers, tablets and online homework

CHED 1583

Suzanne M. Ruder, sruder@vcu.edu, Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1001 W. Main St., Richmond, VA 23284-2006
Organic chemistry has a longstanding reputation as a difficult and dreaded course, mostly due to the perception that excessive amounts of memorization are necessary to succeed. This preconceived attitude coupled with increasing class sizes makes it difficult to connect with students and engage them in learning organic chemistry. Use of new technologies in the classroom can help make the large class seem smaller, and can result in more active involvement of the students during lecture. The tablet PC, personal response devices (clickers) and online homework assignments have all been used in organic chemistry classrooms ranging in size from 90-300 students. Use of these technologies as well as student feedback will be discussed.