Integrating laboratory experience with lecture content through the use of cognitive and cooperative learning strategies in a community college introduction to chemistry course

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of cooperative learning groups in conjunction with cognitive learning strategies for the understanding of chemistry concepts for 23 Introduction to General Chemistry students at the community college level. Students trained in cooperative learning groups. These groups served as the traditional lab group in the laboratory and small discussion groups in the lecture. Various data collection instruments, including a survey, interviews, observations, student self-reflections, formative assessments, and summative assessments were used to determine the effect of the treatment of on student understanding of chemistry concepts, motivation and attitude, and metacognitive abilities.