Using human demonstrations to teach organic chemistry

CHED 1517

Timm A. Knoerzer, tknoerz7@naz.edu, Department of Chemistry, Nazareth College of Rochester, 4245 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14618
Human demonstrations in which students act out details of molecular structures or chemical reactions can be an effective tool to help students learn fundamental concepts in organic chemistry. In particular, students develop a keen sense of the three-dimensional nature of organic molecules and begin to actually "think like a molecule." These methods are especially useful for visual and kinesthetic learners. Therefore, I will present how human demonstrations are used in the organic chemistry course at Nazareth College to illustrate fundamental principles such as acid-base concepts, intermolecular forces, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopy.
 

Using the Arts to Teach Chemistry
8:30 AM-10:45 AM, Wednesday, April 9, 2008 Hilton New Orleans Riverside -- HEC A, Oral

Division of Chemical Education

The 235th ACS National Meeting, New Orleans, LA, April 6-10, 2008