Comprehension of complex organic chemistry topics requires a combination of skills: memorization of names and reactions, spatial awareness of structures, arrow pushing in mechanisms, and multi-step synthetic sequences. In this set of activities we discuss two approaches for collaborative learning in the topics of acid/base chemistry and chemical reactions in an Organic Chemistry I course. We sought to design a set of interactive, cooperative activities in which students could practice common difficult concepts, specifically in this project: the qualitative “ARIO” approach for acid/base chemistry and reactions covered in the course using concept maps. Both activities were structured to have two parts; in the first part, students work in groups of 2-3 students. In the second part, students switch groups to work with a larger set of students to put the jigsaw pieces together. Student participants have provided feedback via surveys at the end of activities. Overall, the student response to the activities were positive, as they indicated that they felt more confident in their knowledge of the topics covered than they did prior to the active learning engagement.

Enhanced student engagement in organic chemistry I through collaborative learning jigsaw activities

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