The application of simple quantum mechanical models to predict and explain molecular vibration is a cornerstone of education in quantum chemistry. Yet, little work has been done in an upper-division chemistry setting in characterizing how students engage in the modeling process in this context. We have developed and implemented a think-aloud interview protocol focused on the use of harmonic and anharmonic oscillator models at three types of institutions: small liberal arts, large regional comprehensive, and large research intensive. We present the interpretation of the data through a literature-grounded coding scheme for characterizing students’ organization of models and model components, as well as with respect to their physical interpretations.

Investigating upper-division students’ scientific modeling practices in the context of molecular vibration

255th National Meeting (2018)

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