Catalyzing the Reaction: High School Seniors -- College Chemists

UNCP Author/Contributor (non-UNCP co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Kimberly Brassard (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP )
Web Site: http://www.uncp.edu/academics/library
Advisor
Brian Postek

Abstract: The purpose of this investigation was to determine if college chemistry professors feel their students are prepared for the work expected of them, and to determine if introductory students feel they have been adequately prepared by their high schools to complete college-level chemistry work. Data was gathered from professors of the UNCP Chemistry Department regarding their feelings on the level of preparation displayed by their students. From the interview, significant data indicated that the professors felt their students lacked a very general understanding of laboratory practices. A survey was administered to General Chemistry I students to determine if they were prepared for laboratory techniques and for writing lab reports. Results of the survey indicated that students did not feel they were very prepared for college-level chemistry laboratories. It appears that both professors and students do not feel the level of preparation is adequate. High school teachers were also interviewed, with results indicating that they felt they were not able to prepare students for college chemistry laboratories adequately. Responses included that there were lack of resources and that more time had to be devoted to preparation for the EOC. Ideas as to how UNCP could help high schools are to offer days for high schools to bring their students into a chemistry lab, or for a group of university representatives to travel to the high schools and give demonstrations to chemistry classes.

Additional Information

Publication
Honors Project
Language: English
Date: 2009
Keywords
Chemistry, High School Students - Education - United States, High School Students - Education - North Carolina - Robeson County, High School Students - Attitudes, Teachers - Attitudes, College Teachers - Attitudes - North Carolina - Robeson County

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