Developing computational chemistry laboratory work module for dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract

This study aims to determine the validity, practicality, and effectiveness of the newly developed computational chemistry-based laboratory work module. The developed laboratory work module is applied to test lawsone’s efficacy and its derivatives as a sensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cells DSSC. The Design and Development D&D research model is used at every stage of development. The research population was 90 prospective teachers of chemistry education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, University of Mataram, Indonesia. All population has passed computational chemistry and photochemistry courses in the 2020/2021 academic year. The research sample was 40 prospective teachers, with a comparison of computational chemistry and photochemistry class samples was 3:1, where the sample was taken randomly. Test the validity of the laboratory work module conducted by three expert validators. The Aiken index shows 0.88, and the developed laboratory work module is in the high validity category. The practicality test was carried out by distributing response questionnaires to prospective teachers. The practicality test score is 82%, which indicates that the practicality of the module is categorized as very practical. Furthermore, the module effectiveness test is carried out by asking respondents to answer the questions provided in the module. The average score obtained by prospective teachers is 71.6% which indicates that the application of the module can improve the understanding of the concept of prospective teachers. In conclusion, the laboratory work module based on computational chemistry is valid, practical, and effective. Modules can be used as reinforcement in learning in computational chemistry and photochemistry courses.