Using a Tablet PC To Enhance Student Engagement and Learning in an Introductory Organic Chemistry Course

Over the past three decades, computer-based technologies have influenced all aspects of chemistry, including chemical education. Pen-based computing applications, such as the tablet PC, have reemerged in the past few years and are providing new ways for educators to deliver content and engage students inside and outside the classroom and laboratory. This article describes the integration of a tablet PC into an introductory organic chemistry course in an effort to improve the process and product of the lecture format. The results from student attitudinal surveys reveal a positive reaction toward tablet-based instruction and the availability of archived lecture notes. In addition, scores on the 2000 American Chemical Society (general, organic and biochemistry) Standardized Exam were statistically higher in tablet PC-enhanced courses. Overall, curricular transformations in chemistry can take many forms, and this article describes a viable approach to improving classroom dynamics and educational outcomes via pen-based technology.