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American Chemical Society Student Affiliates Chapters: More Than Just Chemistry Clubs

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Ingrid Montes

Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, Río Piedras, PR 00931-3346

Carmen Collazo

Department of Chemistry, Pontifical Catholic University, Ponce, PR 00717-0777

J. Chem. Educ., 2003, 80 (10), p 1151

DOI: 10.1021/ed080p1151

Publication Date (Web): October 1, 2003

Abstract

Chemistry educators often examine and implement various instructional techniques, such as mentoring programs, to advance learning objectives and to equip students with analytical and technical skills, as well as the skills required of chemical science professionals. Student organizations, such as an American Chemical Society Student Affiliates (SA) chapter, can create a learning environment for undergraduates by engaging them in activities that develop communication, teamwork and inquiry, analysis, and problem-solving skills within a real-world setting. The environment is student-based, has personal meaning for the learner, emphasizes a process-and-product orientation, and emphasizes evaluation. Participation in SAs enhance the traditional chemistry curriculum, complementing the learning goals and meeting learning objectives that might not otherwise be addressed in the curriculum. In this article we discuss how SA chapters enhance the educational experience of undergraduate chemical science students, help develop new chemistry professionals, and shape enthusiastic and committed future chemical science leaders.