Effect of simulations enhanced with conceptual change texts on university students' understanding of chemical equilibrium


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Ozmen H., Naseriazar A.

JOURNAL OF THE SERBIAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY, vol.83, no.1, pp.121-137, 2018 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 83 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2018
  • Doi Number: 10.2298/jsc161222065o
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF THE SERBIAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.121-137
  • Karadeniz Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of computer simulations enhanced with conceptual change texts (CS-CCT) on first year university students' understanding of chemical equilibrium. A quasi-experimental design and one control group (CG, N = 60) as well as one experimental group (EG, N = 65) were used in the study. While students in CG were taught with traditional methods based on textbooks and blackboard, the EG studied the same unit with CS-CCT. The chemical equilibrium concept test (CECT) was administered as pre-test, post-test and delayed test to collect data. The results indicated that the students' scores in the EG were significantly higher than those in the CG in both post-test and delayed test. It was concluded that CS-CCT may become a more effective way for students to picture in their minds chemical equilibrium and improve their alternative interpretations. Also, such a combination is useful for students to enhance their conceptual understanding.