Dimensional analysis is an algorithm currently in use in almost every chemistry classroom in the United States. Chemistry educators use this procedural tool in the classroom with the intention of providing students with a reliable method to solve many of the relatively simple math problems they encounter. The unintended consequence of using this…

Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers are essential in ensuring the stability and efficiency of numerous scientific, industrial, and medical processes. However, teaching the principles of PID control can be challenging, especially when the introduction focuses on the underlying mathematical framework. To address this, we developed the…

Quantum information science and engineering (QISE) is a rapidly developing field that leverages the skills of experts from many disciplines to utilize the potential of quantum systems in a variety of applications. It requires talent from a wide variety of traditional fields, including physics, engineering, chemistry, and computer science, to name…

Infrared (IR) technologies have been universally acknowledged as a valuable pedagogical tool for exploring novel and abstract scientific subjects in science education. This study explores the roles of IR images played in middle school students' Evidence-based Reasoning (EBR) process in support of the understanding of the heat radiation process.…

A real world sample of actual data that students can use to see the application of the Hardy-Weinberg law to a real population is provided. The directions for using a six-step algorithmic procedure to determine Hardy-Weinberg percentages on the data given are described. (KR)

Ninety students in an introductory chemistry class were divided into three groups to test the power of algorithms to increase logical thinking abilities. The experimental group received approximately 10 hours of laboratory instruction based on the use of procedural algorithms. Experiment and control groups were tested for logical thinking…

A study to investigate one of the mechanisms teachers may use to convince themselves incorrectly that students have learned science concepts requiring formal operational ability is presented. The investigation indicates instructors may actually teach and test for memorization of algorithms rather than understanding. (MP)

Defines one approach to problem solving in terms of student use of algorithms to find their solutions and gives examples. Discusses how problems and algorithms relate to each other. Describes strategies for teaching problem solving using algorithms. (CW)

Describes an algorithm that provides more rapid convergence for more complicated forms of phase separation requiring the use of a digital computer. Demonstrates that this "inside-out" algorithm remains efficient for determination of the equilibrium states for any type of phase transition for a binary system. (CW)

The present study was an exploratory study of the content-specific knowledge structures of three teacher educators (two in math and one in science). Pathfinder, a method for eliciting associative memory networks, was used to describe the knowledge structures of the teacher educators. Pathfinder was also used to determine changes in knowledge…

Discusses the differences between problems and exercises in chemistry, and some of the difficulties that arise when the same methods are used to solve both. Proposes that algorithms are excellent models for solving exercises. Argues that algorithms not be used for solving problems. (TW)

Discusses the difference between a generic chemistry problem (one which can be solved using an algorithm) and a harder chemistry problem (one for which there is no algorithm). Encourages teachers to help students recognize these categories of problems so they will be better able to find solutions. (TW)

Discusses the differences between problems and exercises, the levels of thinking required to solve them, and the roles that algorithms can play in helping chemistry students perform these tasks. Proposes that students be taught the logic of algorithms, their characteristics, and how to invent their own algorithms. (TW)

Presents an algorithm for solving problems related to multiple allelic frequencies in populations at equilibrium. Considers sample problems and provides their solution using this tabular algorithm. (CW)

Suggests a method for solving verbal problems in chemistry using a linguistic algorithm that is partly adapted from two artificial intelligence languages. Provides examples of problems solved using the mental concepts of translation, rotation, mirror image symmetry, superpositioning, disjoininng, and conjoining. (TW)