Although each lab table has its own data station, the network is operated with a single PC in the room. After the tours, demonstrations, and announcements, the educators pulled their desks into a circle to have a stimulating discussion with Vern Hicks from NKU, Dan McLoughlin from Xavier, and Estel from UC concerning the preparation of students for success in freshman college chemistry. Vern began the discussion by providing written curriculum guidelines from his colleagues. Everyone agreed that problem-solving skills, writing skills, and laboratory confidence are the foundation of a quality science background. Students who took their high school chemistry during their sophomore year were found to have retained few of the concepts as they entered the college classroom.
Students rely too heavily on their calculators rather than visualizing a reasonable estimate.
Even students with AP level chemistry struggle in the college classroom. This suggests too much time spent on AP examination preparation and not enough time on concept development. The Xavier chemistry department tries to convince students with an AP level background to enroll in their first year course. Too many students who jumped ahead floundered in the advanced courses. Finally, we discussed teacher preparation.