Student-Generated Stop-Motion Videos for Assessing Reaction Mechanisms in the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry

Abstract

A new student-generated stop-motion video activity was implemented for undergraduate students enrolled in the first and second part of the nonmajor Organic Chemistry laboratory course. We aimed to reinforce and assess the illustration of organic chemistry mechanisms. The activity, structured as a team assignment, tasked students with creating stop-motion videos illustrating assigned reaction mechanisms. Students were encouraged to make their videos with the preferred stop-motion techniques complemented with other tools and technologies, such as computers, smartphones, and free applications. The resulting videos showed impressive creativity and originality. This laboratory activity assessed student performance using a rubric, and a satisfaction survey was conducted to evaluate students’ experiences. Student feedback indicated overall satisfaction, emphasizing the benefits of drawing reaction mechanisms and teamwork skills. The incorporation of mechanism videos enhances the learning experiences of nonmajor organic chemistry students, supporting their comprehension of reaction mechanisms.