Suggests a model of human cognition by describing similarities between human and electronic computers. This model might guide the development of software so that it is sufficiently powerful and flexible to be of value to human computers as they construct new knowledge in chemistry. (JN)

Briefly compares/contrasts two learning theories. Purpose of the first is to inform while the second seeks to lead students to adjust understandings held about a field and/or a concept. Each theory is then related to the purpose of education, suggesting that the second is comparable with recent work in cognitive psychology. (JN)

Described is the transfer function approach which can be applied to a system by measuring the appropriate activation parameters. This approach is conceptually simple and has many mechanistic applications, among which are solvent and structural effects on rates and equilibrium. (Author/DS)

Described is how crystal field theory and the angular overlap model can be applied to very simple molecules which can then be used to introduce such concepts as bonding orbitals, MO diagrams, and Walsh diagrams. The main-group compounds are used as examples and a switch to the transition metal complexes. (KR)

Presents three models that have been effective for teaching chemical equilibrium and Le Chatelier's principle: (1) the liquid transfer model, (2) the fish model, and (3) the teeter-totter model. Explains each model and its relation to Le Chatelier's principle. (MVL)

Briefly describes the terms "sex,""gender,""feminism,""pedagogy," and "feminist pedagogy," and outlines a set of themes common to feminist pedagogies. Discusses practical suggestions for incorporating feminist pedagogy into chemistry teaching. Contains 20 references. (WRM)

Describes programs that have been developed to allow kinetic experiments to be simulated on a small computer. Reports the principles that have guided the conception of the programs and describes an instance of their application to a complex reaction. (Author/GS)

Discusses research attempting to identify difficulties experienced by undergraduate chemistry students in performing specific logical operations at the formal level as described or implied by Inhelder and Piaget. (BT)

Three demonstrations (a mechanical model of chemical equilibrium, a demonstration of Raoult's Law, and a demonstration of permanganate reduction) are presented. Materials and procedures are detailed. (CW)

Shows that two theories of stereochemistry were very different theories, grounded in different assumptions and were intended to explain different phenomena. Presents the original theories and later developments which caused a blending of the theories. (Author/MVL)

Describes a kinetic and mechanistic investigation of ascorbic acid by a substitution-inert complex in acidic medium suitable for the undergraduate level. Discusses obtaining the second order rate constant for the rate determining step at a given temperature and comparison with the value predicted on the basis of the Marcus cross-relation. (CW)

Proposes the use of a relative atomic mass (RAM) scale in which hydrogen is assigned a value from one as a teaching aid for better understanding the concept of RAM. Helps to clarify the ideas and concepts about this topic. (CW)

Described is a Piagetian learning cycle based on Monte Carlo modeling of several simple reaction mechanisms. Included are descriptions of learning cycle phases (exploration, invention, and discovery) and four BASIC-PLUS computer programs to be used in the explanation of chemical reacting systems. (Author/DS)

The evolution of ideas about the concept of chaos is surveyed. Discussed are chaos in deterministic, dynamic systems; order in dissipative systems; and thermodynamics and irreversibility. Included are logistic and bifurcation maps to illustrate points made in the discussion. (CW)

Discusses the concept of kinetic versus thermodynamic control of reactions. Explains on the undergraduate level (1) the role of kinetic and thermodynamic control in kinetic equations, (2) the influence of concentration and temperature upon the reaction, and (3) the application of factors one and two to synthetic chemistry. (MVL)