Online organic chemistry

Janowicz, Philip A.

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/16040 Copy

Description

Title

Online organic chemistry

Author(s)

Janowicz, Philip A.

Issue Date

2010-05-19T18:33:06Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Moore, Jeffrey S.

Doctoral Committee Chair(s)

Moore, Jeffrey S.

Committee Member(s)

• Loui, Michael C.
• van der Donk, Wilfred A.
• Silverman, Scott K.

Department of Study

Chemistry

Discipline

Chemistry

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Degree Level

Dissertation

Keyword(s)

• organic chemistry
• chemical education
• online course
• online
• online homework
• webcast
• Online discussion
• online exam

Abstract

This is a comprehensive study of the many facets of an entirely online organic chemistry course. Online homework with structure-drawing capabilities was found to be more effective than written homework. Online lecture was found to be just as effective as in-person lecture, and students prefer an online lecture format with shorter Webcasts. Online office hours were found to be effective, and discussion sessions can be placed online as well. A model was created that explains 36.1% of student performance based on GPA, ACT Math score, grade in previous chemistry course, and attendance at various forms of discussion. Online exams have been created which test problem-solving skills and is instantly gradable. In these exams, students can submit answers until time runs out for different numbers of points. These facets were combined effectively to create an entirely online organic chemistry course which students prefer over the in-person alternative. Lastly, there is a vision for where online organic chemistry is going and what can be done to improve education for all.

Graduation Semester

2010-5

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/16040

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2010 Philip A. Janowicz

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