Intelligent Molecular Model Kit and Software Suite for Improving High School Chemistry Instruction and Student Achievement

Understanding the spatial structure of organic molecules is a source of difficulty for high school chemistry students. The classic ball-and-stick model of molecules, developed in 1865, is still used today to convey the fundamental characteristics of a molecular system. This model inadequately represents the dynamic nature of the molecular system and fails to represent accurately the relationships of the physical properties of the system. Furthermore, when asked to create molecular models, students may construct a molecule that simply cannot exist in nature, often reinforcing incorrect perceptions of molecular systems rather than teaching valid chemical principles. The purpose of this project is to produce an intelligent molecular modeling kit and software suite for advanced placement chemistry classes. This suite includes real-time communication between student-built hand-held physical models and virtual software models, enabling users to view changes in properties as they manipulate the molecular model in their hands.