Making science accessible in the lives of nonscience majors using POGIL and project-based learning

Engaging nonscience majors in chemically-related global and civic issues using rigorous chemical principles rather than descriptive discussion has been achieved using POGIL group classroom activities focused upon chemical principles, global issues and research skills. These activities provide an excellent foundation for developing in students the skills, confidence and comfort with scientific content to pursue independent literature projects on global and civic concerns. Based upon researched data, student project reports include a brief summary of an issue and one or more original calculations using conversion factors or stoichiometry to illustrate its magnitude, consequence, or resolution. Being able to answer a chemical question of their own making transforms the students\u27 perceptions of their own abilities and of the accessibility of science in their lives. © 2008 American Chemical Society