Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
9.12 Conclusion
The PIN-Concept intends to support process skills and interconnected thinking. The
students should not just take over ready-made knowledge, but should actively
participate in the construction of knowledge in an inquiry-based learning process.
Thereby they should gain insight into scientific working and argumentation. This
process-oriented approach is a lot harder and more time consuming than a strictly
content-oriented approach, but it is also much more fun and leads to a deeper
methodical understanding. The results of this empirical study in fundamental
classes of grade 11 show that these aims can be achieved. The PIN-Concept imparts
rewarding learning experiences: “I liked to be kind of a scientist
”([
2
], p. 157).
This is how one student explained her experience with the PIN-Concept. These
cognitively and affectively positive overall impressions build the foundation of
what will remain from high school chemistry once the students graduate and forget
about most of the details. The image of chemistry in our society and the educational
value of it are based on the quality of the learning processes, which students
experience themselves in chemistry lessons.
The philosophy of the PIN-Concept may be summarized as follows: “Not the
systematic of organic chemistry itself, but the construction of this systematic based
on experimental experience contributes to general knowledge. The active, construc-
tive acquisition of knowledge organizes the students' mind and leaves deeper
impressions than the simple reproduction of knowledge. The systematic knowledge
becomes relevant, if this process is successful. Otherwise it will be rejected.” [
85
].
Cary expressed the same idea as follows: “Education is ultimately the flavor left
over after all the facts, formulae and diagrams have been forgotten.” [
86
]
...
Experimental Details
1 Test Reactions as Analytical Tools
1.1 Cerium Nitrate Test
-
Reagent
: 40 g cerium ammonium nitrate are dissolved in 100 ml nitric acid
(
c
2 mol/l).
-
Procedure
: 1 ml cerium ammonium nitrate reagent is to be diluted with 2 ml
water. Add 5 drops of the test substance and shake well. Let rest for 5 min and
observe.
-
Result
: A color change from yellow to red (or orange) indicates molecules with
¼
alcohol groups.
