The application of computational tools in the General Chemistry sequence at our two-year college has been proved to enhance the learning experience, providing solid foundations and useful intellectual tools for the work ahead once the students transfer to a four-year institution to complete their undergraduate education. In our work we have surveyed groups of students exposed to diverse computer applications (Excel, LoggerPro, SmartWork online homework system, and Hyperchem)  that aid or supplement their study of General Chemistry. Based on their scores in diverse exercises and in their survey answers, we can assert that in spite of the presence of computers and devices everywhere most of the time: on campus, in the labs, and on the students' hands, the teaching and assessment of General Chemistry still needs to catch up with the level of the computational tidal wave. By making the necessary adjustments in the way chemistry is taught, we will serve better the needs of our student population and contribute to their success at the two-year college.

On the suitability of computational tools to enhance the general chemistry sequence at two-year colleges

251st National Meeting (2016)

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