Development of Collaborative, Computer-Networked Laboratories in General Chemistry

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This project provides students with accurate experience in the laboratory of the scientific process and skills for solving real life problems. The project extends a three year pilot project that uses collaborative computer based learning to meet the above goals. Student groups explore the same general problem, but each group uses different reagents. A networked computer system (CoLABnet) is used to collect, pool, and summarize the largely qualitative class data. The pooled data allow the students to examine more parameters with better accuracy than would individual data. The discovery of trends is facilitated by presenting students with multiple instances of the same phenomenon. Groups use commercial graphing software and communicate their findings during a post-lab discussion. Preliminary data from the pilot project indicate that student learning and responses are improved by the new methods. The project evaluates the impact on student learning, evaluates and optimizes the design and implementation of software, develops new software around a commercial database program, and develops and implements a training and support system for TA's. As part of the TA training process, newly developed videotapes dealing with instructional techniques relevant to the collaborative learning classroom are used.