Session Type

Workshop

Start Date

6-7-2011 10:15 AM

Keywords

active learning, student engagement, large class, Year 1 science course, interactive engagement

Primary Threads

Teaching and Learning Science

Abstract

Although documented in other disciplines (e.g. biology), the use of skit demonstrations in chemistry classes is relatively unknown. These demonstrations are designed to illustrate concepts that may be challenging for students to visualize. The skit demonstrations include students from class as the principal participants, and thus engage not only the direct participants but also their audience peers. Additionally, the physical activity involved appeals to the active learner. This presentation will provide some examples of the types of concepts that can be illustrated with specific examples of skit demonstrations developed for use in a large Year 1 Chemistry course (e.g. aromaticity, molecular shape).

The examples provided in this presentation will highlight the possibility for student direction within some of these demonstrations, although most of the ones attempted thus far have been highly facilitated. Preliminary results from a current research study will provide some student feedback on the use of these exercises in class.

Participants at this workshop will have the opportunity to work individually and together to develop ideas for how they may make use of lecture skit demonstrations in their own course(s). In this way participants from any discipline may derive benefit from this interactive session. It is anticipated that there will be opportunity for presentation of some of the newly developed ideas to the whole group!

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Jul 6th, 10:15 AM

Engaging Students and Enhancing Learning with Lecture Skit Demonstrations

Although documented in other disciplines (e.g. biology), the use of skit demonstrations in chemistry classes is relatively unknown. These demonstrations are designed to illustrate concepts that may be challenging for students to visualize. The skit demonstrations include students from class as the principal participants, and thus engage not only the direct participants but also their audience peers. Additionally, the physical activity involved appeals to the active learner. This presentation will provide some examples of the types of concepts that can be illustrated with specific examples of skit demonstrations developed for use in a large Year 1 Chemistry course (e.g. aromaticity, molecular shape).

The examples provided in this presentation will highlight the possibility for student direction within some of these demonstrations, although most of the ones attempted thus far have been highly facilitated. Preliminary results from a current research study will provide some student feedback on the use of these exercises in class.

Participants at this workshop will have the opportunity to work individually and together to develop ideas for how they may make use of lecture skit demonstrations in their own course(s). In this way participants from any discipline may derive benefit from this interactive session. It is anticipated that there will be opportunity for presentation of some of the newly developed ideas to the whole group!