Research data shows that many students struggle with depth perception and three-dimensional visualization of objects. Work by Sheryl Sorby indicates that this barrier is linked to success in STEM courses. We have taught Sorby’s “Introduction to 3D Spatial Visualization” for 4 semesters. We have also developed teaching tools that assist molecular visualization. Students in the gateway courses are increasingly dependent on visual oriented student learning styles. They are turning to online teaching tools in favor of textbooks and we expect this trend away from textbooks will continue. Student surveys indicate that our efforts to improve 3D visualization have been appreciated by those using our tools and taking the course. We have found that student scores in organic chemistry improve as result of using the teaching tools and we are tracking the students who have taken the Visualization course to see if they are more successful than their colleagues who have not taken the course. We will discuss the course content, how we select students for course enrollment, assessment techniques and results, and future directions.

Improving 3D visualization for STEM success

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.