Engaging Health Student in Learning Organic Chemistry Reaction Mechanisms Using Short and Snappy Lightboard Videos

Abstract

Organic reaction mechanisms are one of the most challenging question types in introductory organic chemistry subjects. We identified that the students within our health-based programs had traditionally performed poorly with these question types. With the aim to increase student engagement, we have developed a series of lightboard videos demonstrating key organic mechanisms. The effectiveness of these lightboard videos was first evaluated in a postlecture group learning session, and second as an extra resource over a four year period by comparing the exam results. The students overall showed an increase in performance in the subject, and a deeper engagement over the time during which we analyzed the effectiveness of these resources.