Supporting Internal Model Representation in Organic Chemistry by Using Augmented Reality

• In Event: 25.077 - Science Teaching and Learning SIG Paper Session: Discipline-Specific

Abstract

Many students have trouble when they need to process three-dimensional spatial information within their learning process. Particularly in the field of chemistry where high abilities in visual-spatial modelling are required, students are easily overwhelmed by visualizations they cannot fully understand at the beginning of their learning process. A promising approach to support students in building an internal mental model of external visualizations is by using augmented reality (AR). In this study, we integrated AR-visualizations in a conventional paper-pencil test on stereochemistry at college level and focused the question if AR-visualizations support students’ information processing resulting in higher test scores. In light of frequently reported differences regarding spatial ability, we assume to support females in particular.

Author

• Sebastian Habig, University of Duisburg-Essen