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Development and Validation of a Courseware in Molecular Symmetry and Group Theory


This study aimed to develop and validate a computer-based multimedia package for teaching the basic principles of molecular symmetry and group theory. The courseware was developed using MSPowerPoint and evaluated in terms of objectives, contents, instructional quality, technical quality, significance and effectiveness. Descriptive research design was used in the study in which senior chemistry majors of Central Luzon State University were the participants. Questionnaires, pre and post tests of spatial ability and knowledge of molecular symmetry and group theory were used to collect information. Performance posttest scores of the participants were significantly higher than the pretest scores. Significant improvement in the quiz scores of the participants was also observed. These imply the effectiveness of the package as a learning resource. The post spatial ability test scores were also significantly higher than the pre spatial ability test scores of the participants. The MolSymGT courseware improved students’ spatial ability. Correlation analysis established highly significant positive relationship between spatial ability (pre and post) and posttest scores of chemistry performance. A positive significant relationship was also established between spatial ability (pre and post) and performance quiz on molecular symmetry analysis. However, performance quizzes on molecular symmetry determination and symmetry applications in chemistry were not correlated with the pre and post spatial ability scores of the students. Male students performed better in the spatial ability test than females while no significant differences existed between the performances of the two groups. The MolSymGT courseware had been evaluated as an effective teaching tool. Moreover, based on the results of the students’ attitude survey, the courseware reflects the characteristics of an effective courseware for learning.

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