Theme-Based Exams in General Chemistry

Carmela Amato-Wierda
Department of Chemistry, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824
J. Chem. Educ., 1999, 76 (6), p 795
DOI: 10.1021/ed076p795
Publication Date (Web): June 1, 1999
History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

Theme-based exams have been implemented in a one-semester, advanced-level general chemistry course for science and engineering majors. The exams are based on interdisciplinary topics related to chemistry, physics, materials science, environmental science, earth science, soil science, biochemistry, and chemical, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. This is part of a larger effort to bring a motivating state-of-the-art focus to the lecture and laboratory of this course by teaching general chemistry in the context of current research topics and technical challenges related to the career goals of the students in the course. Student attitudes toward the theme-based exams were evaluated. Students determined the theme-based exams to be more interesting, informative, and less upsetting than traditional exams. Additionally, end-of-course evaluations indicated that students were almost unanimous in recognizing that chemistry would be important for their future professional careers.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Curriculum

Keywords (Feature):

Resources for Student Assessment

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Testing / Assessment

Keywords (Subject):

Student / Career Counseling
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  • Received: August 03, 2009

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