Efficacy of Workbooks in Foundation Chemistry

Abstract

The University of New England (UNE) Foundation Chemistry unit (CHEM100) is designed as a bridging unit for students undertaking science-based programs which have first year chemistry as a core requirement. Students at UNE come from varied backgrounds and many, having never studied chemistry before, find it challenging and intimidating. These students are also typically enrolled in applied life science degrees such as agriculture, animal science and zoology, and struggle to see the relevance of chemistry. Consequently, effective student engagement in Foundation Chemistry is a continuing challenge. CHEM100 has traditionally been taught online, but in 2016 an on-campus stream was introduced to cater for students who are mainly school leavers and have an agricultural science background and have not developed the confidence or ability to study a conceptually difficult unit online.