The choice of textbook can be a difficult decision for an instructor.  In addition to skyrocketing prices, it can be difficult to find a textbook that matches the instructor’s approach. This is true at Penn State, where we teach using the “Atoms First” method; we start at the molecular level, and then integrate observable macroscopic properties. Our solution has been to write a highly interactive electronic textbook (or e-Book) that uses our teaching philosophy and includes exactly the content that our students need to learn.<br/> <br/>Interactive features include simulations and illustrations, video demonstrations, tutorials, self-assessments, and a linked glossary.  An interactive periodic table illustrates periodic trends and elemental properties.  The molecular displays applet allows a user to view and manipulate molecules using ball and stick, space-filling models, or colorful MEP models. Other features include extensive data tables, a highlighter, and an online scientific calculator that can email calculation results.<br/> <br/>The content is organized into lessons where topics are intelligently linked throughout.  Example problems with complete solutions are included, along with enrichment modules that can be assigned at the instructor’s discretion. An interactive course syllabus details reading assignments and the course schedule, and is directly linked to an online question bank of homework problems. An assessment tool is in the development stages, and will provide a mechanism to increase retention by identifying the gaps in learning for individual students. The contents can be used for residential instruction, on-line delivery, hybrid instruction, or as enrichment materials in any setting. The e-Book is linked to our course management system, and can display a course menu containing items such as announcements, handouts, course information, and learning objectives.  The course menu and content are completely customizable by different instructors.

Interactive e-book introduces new ways to teach and learn general chemistry

2019 Spring National Meeting

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