The effect of computer simulations on the conceptual understanding in general chemistry lab

Abstract

Computer simulations provide an interactive and visual environment that promote and support conceptual change in chemistry education. They are tools that enable students to become actively engaged in their learning and encourage concept exploration and assist in developing their inquiry skills. It is through the implementation of a series of inquiry based student activities that these simulations will be evaluated for their effectiveness in improving conceptual understanding. The results of this study revealed that traditional instruction supplemented with computer simulations helped students perform better on short term conceptual assessments. The use of computer simulations improved student achievement and had a positive influence on student's attitudes to learning conceptual chemistry concepts.