An Introduction to the Concept

The ChemPrime Project is a curriculum-wide initiative in response to the National Science Foundation call for Systemic Change in the Undergraduate Chemistry Curriculum. The goals of the project are threefold:

1) a change in the focus that the student perceives while maintaining the fundamentals necessary to their understanding of chemistry. This topical focus would be determined by the student by selection among many available options designed to maximize student interest- an empowerment of the students to involve themselves in their education.

2) a change from the current curricular materials production process to one in which flexibility, speed of update, and involvement of the creative energies of the broad chemistry community are the hallmarks of the process. We thus seek participation by anyone interested in this concept to learn more.

3) development of methodology for the evaluation of the pedagogical effectiveness of the courses/curriculum on a sub-chapter scale that allows ready modification to improve the content, presentation, and learning style strategies.

To achieve these goals the curriculum will use CD-ROM and Network technology which will enable the flexibility and options sought as well as the incorporation of multimedia, optimal learning styles, a cooperative learning environment, and ready faculty contact.

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ChemPrime Introduction