Peer Led Team Learning into Organic Chemistry

A web-based learning system for Organic Chemistry is being integrated into a Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) environment to restructure the existing Organic Chemistry I discussion (OrgoBOND) sections to enhance student learning, improve overall grades, and lower the Organic Chemistry I DFW rates. Students taking Organic Chemistry I are required to participate in a section of OrgoBOND utilizing the web-based learning system in a smaller classroom than in previous discussion sessions. Student performance will be compared to that of students in future semesters participating in the same small PLTL setting, but with traditional recitation format. The advantages of introducing a web-based learning system into PLTL discussion sessions are (1) providing “hints,” (2) offering multiple attempts per question, and (3) instant grading and feedback. The computer assignments are unique to each student and reflect the topic recently reviewed in lecture. We will report on the preliminary results from data being collected on student performance, satisfaction levels, and retention rate changes.