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Hands-On Practical Chemistry for All: Why and How?
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Abstract
Practical work in chemistry is invariably described as essential in chemical education, and a variety of aims is claimed for it. Yet in schools around the world it is frequently absent from the real curriculum. Although some of the explanations advanced for this conundrum are little more than excuses, there is truth in the cost explanation.
In this article we report on our development of a system based on microscale chemistry kits for individual students. These reusable kits comprise a number of components specially designed around a Comboplate made of optically clear plastic. The kits are supplied in individual zip-lock bags with a variety of configurations to suit different grades and curricula. Chemicals are supplied as solids and prepared solutions in quantities suitable for a whole class for one year, and student worksheets are available. The total system is cost-effective, safe, environmentally friendly, and versatile.
The system has been very well received in both wealthy and poor contexts and countries by both teachers and students. It is so convenient and user-friendly it appeals to teachers. For students, pride of ownership is tapped by the individual kits. Their portability facilitates fieldwork and also distance learning. The system, developed through academic-industrial cooperation, may well achieve a global revolution in chemistry teaching and learning.
Keywords (Audience):
Elementary / Middle School ScienceKeywords (Domain):
CurriculumKeywords (Pedagogy):
Hands-On Learning / ManipulativesKeywords (Subject):
Microscale LabCiting Articles
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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).
A Cost-Effective Two-Part Experiment for Teaching Introductory Organic Chemistry Techniques
Christopher M. Sadek, Brenna A. Brown, and Hayley WanJournal of Chemical Education2011 88 (10), 1431-1433A Cost-Effective Two-Part Experiment for Teaching Introductory Organic Chemistry Techniques
Christopher M. Sadek, Brenna A. Brown, and Hayley WanJournal of Chemical Education2011 88 (10), 1431-1433This two-part laboratory experiment is designed to be a cost-effective method for teaching basic organic laboratory techniques (recrystallization, thin-layer chromatography, column chromatography, vacuum filtration, and melting point determination) to ...
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- Received: August 03, 2009
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