Page 20 - Abstract Booklet-TRiO 2020 Virtual Explorations

STRUCTURED ABSTRACT

GROUP MEMBERS:

Jessie Sachiel Sha’Niyaah Calicia Kennedi Leiyla
Tucker Neree Dunkins Hindman Martin Brent

Other Group Members: Aniyah Stevenson and Autumn Greenleaf

Using Concept Mapping to Enhance Student Learning of Chemistry Topics

INTRODUCTION:
Concept maps have long been used to observe relationships between scientific concepts. In this

experiment, quantitative data was gathered to determine the effectiveness of using concept maps in
learning chemistry topics, specifically Measurement, Matter, the Atomic Theory, and the Periodic Table.

We hypothesized if students used concept maps, they would have a better understanding of chemistry-

related topics as concept maps can visually demonstrate to students the connections within specific topics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study took place throughout a 4-week period. Each week was dedicated to one topic. Students
constructed concept maps about topics after completing virtual labs through online labs in Labster Lab

using VR (virtual reality) headsets, and after attending a virtual class with a Chemistry instructor. At the
end of the 4 weeks, students completed a survey asking whether concept maps were useful in their

Chemistry course. The survey had 7 questions and 6 students participated.