2011-12
Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)
At the completion of the Chemistry Program, a student will have:
|
PSLO Assessment Report Summary
What we looked at: We collected and pooled the assessment data for our sections of Chem 7. This was regarding CSLO #2:
Here is the data obtained by using the third exam as the assessment tool:
What we found: Organic reactions are one of the most difficult (but inescapable) topics in the course. These results are not unusual for Chem 7 classes, but of course we would prefer them to improve. The data was obtained from two sections of Chem 7. The distribution of proficiencies was similar between both sections.
Both professors routinely use a weekly extra “lab hour” to review lecture topics with students. In addition, nearly every 3-hour lab session began with a review session lasting 45 to 90 minutes. During this time, students discussed topics and worked out exercises in preparation of upcoming exams. We tried to place special emphasis on organic reactions. Apparently the extra time for review did not improve student learning significantly, or at least, test scores did not increase. Many students told us that they found value in the review sessions, so we will continue to use the beginning of each lab for review. However, we need a different strategy to help more students understand organic reactions.
What we are planning to work on: Using worksheets or textbook problems, we will drill the class in what we know will be their most difficult topics.
We will give extra time to organic reactions in the Fall courses.
We plan to write new worksheets designed to help students break down and analyze organic reactions. Perhaps a step-by-step procedure (identify the change in functional groups, recall pertinent reactions, and modify to solve the given problem) will give students a better understanding.
|