From Plastic Models to Virtual Reality Headsets: Enhancing Molecular Structure Education for Undergraduate Students
Issued Date
2024-06-26
Resource Type
ISSN
00094293
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85197622917
Pubmed ID
38946418
Journal Title
Chimia
Volume
78
Issue
6
Start Page
439
End Page
442
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Chimia Vol.78 No.6 (2024) , 439-442
Suggested Citation
Pimpasri C., Limpanuparb T. From Plastic Models to Virtual Reality Headsets: Enhancing Molecular Structure Education for Undergraduate Students. Chimia Vol.78 No.6 (2024) , 439-442. 442. doi:10.2533/chimia.2024.439 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/99635
Title
From Plastic Models to Virtual Reality Headsets: Enhancing Molecular Structure Education for Undergraduate Students
Author(s)
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
The comprehension of molecular structure is pivotal in chemistry education. Over the past decade, Mahidol University International College has employed various teaching tools for the introductory chemistry laboratory class. This paper outlines our evolutionary shift from traditional tools, such as plastic and plasticine models, to the integration of computer software, and ultimately to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools-specifically, MoleculARweb and MolecularWebXR developed by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne researchers. In this paper, we detail the implementation of these tools in our classes and present the outcomes of student surveys. Our instructional focus encompasses VSEPR, Atomic Orbitals, Molecular Orbitals, Skeletal Formula, and Enantiomers. This paper not only serves as a model for educators in general chemistry at secondary school or university levels to incorporate technology into their classrooms but also showcases a collaborative endeavor between Swiss and Thai researchers.