Investigation of Students’ Ability to Transform and Translate 2D Molecular Diagrammatic Representations and its Relationship to Spatial Ability and Prior Chemistry Knowledge

Abstract

Students’ understanding of molecular structure through the use of two dimensional diagrammatic representations is essential for chemistry learning. However, several researches suggest that students exhibit difficulties in achieving representational competence with molecular diagrams. This study is focused on three forms of diagrammatic representations: Newman projections (NP), Fisher projections (FP) and Dash-Wedge diagrams (DW). Three computer based diagram matching tests were designed, developed and implemented to 33 undergraduates from our chemistry department. Students’ visuospatial skills and prior chemistry knowledge were also assessed. The findings of this pilot study were derived from the analysis of participants’ performance (scores and response times) in the matching diagrams tests, the spatial tests and the Chemistry test. Statistical analysis was performed in order to investigate the relationships between the examined cognitive factors and students’ performance in matching diagrams.