What works in learning organic chemistry?
Practice - Work lots of
different problems
Prepare - Read the text -
before class
Collaborate - Work
with study groups, Participate in the workshops
Visualize - Work with the
model kits
Use the class resources:
Web site
Old quizzes and exams
ConcepTests
Frequent quizzes are helpful
Not enough time for quizzes & exams
Chem TV / animations
Use other resources:
Write out notes
Refer to other textbooks
Make flash cards
Use other Internet sources
Merck Index
Advice to other students:
Don't get behind / don't cram
Don't be totally reliant on models for 3D
Don't spend too much time on one topic
Unresolved
big issues:
How to deal with the frustrations of the huge amount of material/time
limitations and not performing well on an exam.
Using the web resources which are impressive but overwhelming.
How to prioritize and develop efficient strategies.
How to identify what went wrong when you don’t do well and how to learn from
mistakes.