Introducing Molecular Structural Analysis Using a Guided Systematic Approach Combined with an Interactive Multiplatform Web Application

• Armélinda Agnello ^[1] ; Stéphane Vanberg ^[1] ; Céline Tonus ^[1] ; Bernard Boigelot ^[1] ; Laurent Leduc ^[1] ; Christian Damblon ^[1] ; Jean-François Focant ^[1]
  1. [1] University of Liège

     University of Liège

     Arrondissement de Liège, Bélgica

     
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 97, Nº 12, 2020, págs. 4330-4338
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • Performing the identification of organic chemical compounds from a set of spectroscopic data gives the opportunity to students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In this context, we developed a student-centered methodology for teaching molecular structural analysis to first-year undergraduate students. This systematic approach was implemented during classroom-training sessions and complemented by a home-based training program. Home-based activities involved a multiplatform Web-based application (ULg Spectra) combined with guided inquiries. ULg Spectra offers fully interactive tutorial/drill materials relying on mass, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra (i.e., one-dimensional 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra and two-dimensional 1H–13C HSQC spectra). A survey indicates that the vast majority of students valued the ULg Spectra application combined with guided inquiries, especially in terms of usability and usefulness. This approach prompted them to actively engage in problem solving, and student autonomy was improved. Statistical data demonstrated that low-, medium-, and high-training students’ groups showed increasing performance in the final exam. Interestingly, a statistically significant increase in final grades and success rate was also observed compared to previous years.