Development of Video Modules Illustrating Organic Chemistry Lab Techniques

TitleDevelopment of Video Modules Illustrating Organic Chemistry Lab Techniques
Faculty/College/UnitScience
StatusCompleted
Duration1 Year
Initiation04/01/2004
Completion03/31/2005
Project Summary

This project will allow for the development of video modules that will demonstrate the principles and applications of standard organic chemistry laboratory techniques that are utilized in the Chem 235 course. Chem 235 is a one-term organic laboratory course that is offered in the fall, winter and spring terms with a total enrollment of approximately 1300 students. Many students have difficulties understanding how to assemble the equipment that is used in these labs, along with the theory behind these experiments and how to handle problems when they occur. These labs are not straightforward and tend to resemble the approach one takes when one is attempting original research. Problems must be critically analyzed and decisions made as to which approach would probably give one the best result. These aspects are difficult to illustrate solely with “words” in a lab manual or a “static” diagram of apparatus that is already assembled. These concepts would not be demonstrated in a video format that the students would be required to preview (either via WebCT or on a CD-ROM, whichever proves to be easier to access) before coming to the lab to undertake similar things. I am hoping to eventually incorporate interactive aspects in these modules, in the form of questions answered via WebCT, as a part of the preparation exercise.

Funding Details
Year 1: Project YearYear 1
Year 1: Funding Year2004/2005
Year 1: Project TypeSmall TLEF
Year 1: Principal InvestigatorDana Zendrowski
Year 1: Funded Amount27,640
Year 1: Team Members

Dana Zendrowski, Chemistry, Faculty of Science