Resources to Teach and Learn Chemistry

The ChemCollective contains a collection of virtual labs, scenario-based learning activities, tutorials, and concept tests. Teachers can use our content for pre-labs, for alternatives to textbook homework, and for in-class activities for individuals or teams. Students can review and learn chemistry concepts using our virtual labs, simulations, and tutorials. ChemCollective is organized by Dr. David Yaron (Carnegie Mellon University) and Dr. Ryan Dwyer (University of Mount Union).

Virtual Labs

ChemCollective contains virtual labs that cover nearly the entire range of experiments used in high school and college general chemistry.

Here's an example of a titration performed in the virtual lab:

Students can perform calculations as they would in lab, or use the pH meter / concentration tables to check their understanding of the system.

Kinetics functionality has recently been added to the virtual lab - see Kinetics of the Persulfate-Iodide Clock Reaction for a virtual version of the popular general chemistry experiment (see Iodide Clock Reaction for an example).

OLI Chemistry

The Open Learning Initiative has courses covering General Chemistry I and General Chemistry II. Each module includes text, worked examples (including interactive worked examples), a multitude of thoughtfully scaffolded practice problems (with adaptive and targeted feedback), and assessments.

The integration of these components provides a seamless and interactive learning experience for your students. The courseware also provides instructors with data on student performance, which they can use to adapt their instruction to student needs.

OLI Chemistry is free for high schools; for higher education, please contact OLI for more information.