Equilibrium Learning Module
The complex world of chemical reactions and equations can sometimes seem like a daunting maze to students, including the students in Dr. Mark McClain’s General Chemistry II class. Helping students navigate that maze is a challenge that Dr. McClain recently met with the help of Cedarville’s Center for Teaching & Learning (CT&L).
He noticed that many of his students were struggling to master a critical course concept called equilibrium. Wanting to find a way to help them excel in the course, Dr. McClain approached the Center for Teaching & Learning. The staff met with Dr. McClain in early January to plan a solution that would enhance the quality of Dr. McClain’s course. Using the Center’s established process of planning, design, development, implementation, and evaluation, Educational Technology Analyst Dara Fraley first worked with the class T. A. Jeff Whitacre to pinpoint the root problem. They discovered that many students were having difficulty with the math used in equilibrium equations.
To help the students, the CT&L staff developed an online teaching module covering three textbook chapters that deal with equilibrium. Dara Fraley and Phil Schanely, Educational Technology Analyst for the Center, designed the site with a goal to engage students with a range of learning styles and needs. Dara filmed video clips of Jeff at the whiteboard working through practice problems and included links to additional math aides for students who need help with the math. After viewing the videos, students can test their knowledge with interactive practice problems designed and coded by Phil. The module went online February 9th, in time for students to use it in preparation for the first exam.
Dr. McClain has already heard from a number of students who say the module helped them in studying for the exam. The CT&L staff will continue to be in touch with him to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of the module and make improvements based on the findings. Meanwhile, students from this point forward now have a resource to help them master one of the trickiest concepts in General Chemistry II.
The Center for Teaching & Learning exists as a resource Cedarville University faculty. The center staff has expertise in a variety of educational technology including multimedia (both video and Flash animations) and website design. They are equipped to use these tools to provide faculty with instructional support (everything from projects like the equilibrium learning module to complete course designs and redesigns) and help them sharpen their skills in pedagogy and technology.