Pedagogical approaches to teaching chemistry have undergone several changes recently. Guided inquiry promises to re-invigorate learning due to direct student participation, because it allows students to construct their own understanding of basic principles.  The limitation of this approach can be found in the basic level of questions posed to the students.  Alternatively, problem-based learning can be used to investigate more complex applications of science, but students often fail to develop the basic principles in that context.    We have developed Applied Theme-based Learning Activities for Students (ATLAS); this approach combines these two methods in all of our introductory courses.   In ATLAS, the students construct their understanding of basic principles through guided inquiry exercises and are asked to apply these principles in the classroom to investigate a modern aspect of chemistry.  Methods to assess the students' abilities to demonstrate mastery on both basic principles and problem-solving approaches will be provided.

Applied theme-based learning activities for students in organic and introductory courses

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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