In order to tackle the broad topics covered in the first semester physical chemistry laboratory at Appalachian State University, we have developed a series of pre- and post-lab activities designed to encourage a growth mindset and increase retention through a prediction, experimentation, and discussion model. These POGIL learning activities are designed to be completed within a 2 hour lab period and up to 2 lab periods in total. The pre-lab activities include guided problems to walk students through conceptual connections, calculations, and interpretation of results using fake data or results from NIST. After the experiment is performed, the post-lab discussions are designed to process and interpret results from their experiment. The POGIL learning cycle is ideally completed two to three times in most activities, in order to build connections to theory and data. As the implementation of these activities is recent, empirical evidence of student success are limited, but promising. These changes have resulted in clearer data analysis for students and a reduction in grading time for instructors. The retention of material for students is yet to be determined.

Engaging students through pre-lab activities in physical chemistry labs

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.