Chemistry ConcepTests: A Pathway to Interactive Classrooms
Clark R. Landis, University of Wisconsin, Madison
Arthur B. Ellis, University of Wisconsin, Madison
George C. Lisenky, Beloit College
Julie K. Lorenz
Kathleen Meeker
Carl C. Wamser, Portland State University

ISBN-10: 013090628X
ISBN-13: 9780130906281

Publisher: Prentice Hall
Copyright: 2001
Format: Paper; 112 pp
Published: 12/14/2000

Suggested retail price: $30.20
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ConcepTests, based on work done in the physics classroom by Eric Mazur at Harvard University, are a simple yet effective method for teaching science. They involve asking students to quickly provide the answer to a conceptual question during the course of a lecture, and then, if there is disagreement about the answer, to work in groups to discuss the problem.

Numerous instructors are already making use of this approach in courses across the curriculum. The goal of ConcepTests is to foster active student learning, even in a large lecture environment. Engaging students in the learning process has been shown to increase classroom attendance, improve student learning of and attitude toward chemistry, and reduce attrition.

This is the first book designed to assist instructors who are interested in implementing ConcepTests in their chemistry courses. It explains what a ConcepTest is, how to craft one, how to implement this technique (with special attention paid to large classrooms), and it provides a number of tools that will help instructors use ConcepTests with a minimum of effort.

  • Comprehensive.

    • Contains all the material an instructor would need to learn about and implement ConcepTests in any chemistry course. Ex.___

  • Versatile—This book discusses issues related to the educational methodology and not to specific courses.

    • Instructors of any chemistry course can use this book. Ex.___

  • Class-tested sample ConcepTests included—The material in the book has been tested on and evaluated by students in a variety of courses and at a variety of institutions. It has been fine-tuned for efficacy and accuracy.

    • The material in this guidebook forms a strong base of material that can be used as-is and to seed ideas. Ex.___

  • Instructor Website allows constant updating.

    • As this material is refined, users can receive updates, new questions, and interact with those at other institutions who are implementing similar programs. Ex.___



How Satisfied Are You with Your Chemistry Course?


What Are ConcepTests?

Essential Features of ConcepTests.



Classifying ConcepTests Using Bloom's Taxonomy.


More on ConcepTests Mechanics.

Introduction of ConcepTests. Class Size. Presentation Options. Voting Methods. Discussion Options.



How Might ConcepTests Impact Me as an Instructor?

Risks and Rewards. Real-Time Feedback. Rate of Material Coverage. Lecture Preparation Time. Constructing Lectures with ConcepTests. Entry into Student-Centered Teaching Styles. Impact on Assessment of Student Learning. Student Attitudes. Student Evaluations. Convincing Yourself and Your Colleagues.



How Might ConcepTests Impact My Students?

Risks and Rewards. Enthusiasm for Lectures. Real-Time Feedback. Peer Instruction. Attendance. Attrition. Communication Skills. Impact on Student Learning.



Other Resources.

ConcepTest Website. ConcepTest Video Tape. Physics ConcepTest Website. NSF Curriculum Reform Projects.



References.


Appendix.


General Chemistry ConcepTests.


Inorganic Chemistry ConcepTests.


Organic Chemistry ConcepTests.

Chemistry ConcepTests: A Pathway to Interactive Classrooms is an introduction to an emerging peer-teaching technique for the effective teaching of introductory chemistry courses. The simple method of asking focused questions in lecture, then permitting students to vote, discuss, and vote again on the answer, has altered not just course mechanics but course culture. The peer instructional practices that it promotes can enliven a course for both students and instructors. This book introduces chemistry teachers to this technique and some of its many variations.

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