Development of a Materials-Oriented General Chemistry Course

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A materials-oriented approach to chemistry is being developed through the preparation of "A Materials Chemistry Companion to General Chemistry", by an ad hoc committee of two dozen leading chemistry researchers and teachers. Consisting of text, problem sets, model kits, software, videotapes, demonstration and laboratory experiments, the "Companion" is scheduled for publication by the American Chemical Society in 1993. The "Companion" will demonstrate how virtually every topic typically covered in introductory chemistry courses can be illustrated with solids such as polymers, semiconductors, metals, superconductors, and ceramics. The project focuses both on innovation - the completion of material for the "Companion" - and on change - the implementation of a national strategy for assimilating materials chemistry into introductory chemistry courses. Strategies for effecting change include national testing of the "Companion" at over two dozen volunteering college test sites (more than 15,000 students); development of modules based on the "Companion" and their use in workshops for college and pre-college teachers; and critical evaluation of the instructional materials. The "Companion" and supporting activities will revitalize general chemistry courses, enhance the scientific literacy of students and teachers, and increase the number and diversity of high-quality students electing to pursue careers as chemists, chemistry teachers, scientists and engineers.