Three-dimensional models are often used in general chemistry as a means to help students visualize abstract concepts. The goal being to minimize the cognitive load of the general chemistry curriculum in order to provide more cognitive capacity for learning. However, what are students paying attention to when using the models during these activities? Nine General Chemistry II students with varying spatial skills were identified to participate in a simulated classroom environment where they would complete a modeling activity focused on coordinate covalent geometry and molecule-molecule interactions. Tobii Glasses 2 were used to collect data on what students were attending to in the model while completing the activity. Results of the eye-tracking data and how it relates to the content of the activity and the spatial ability of the student will be discussed in order to provide suggestions for future activity development.

Using eye-tracking data to determine what general chemistry students attend to when completing a three-dimensional modeling activity

2019 Spring National Meeting

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