The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has started Organic Chemistry 1 MOOC, 15 week course for first semester M.Sc Chemistry students through the SWAYAM platform.
The course is of 15 week and comprises 40 modules and 4 credit and had attracted over 2000 students from India and abroad.
The MOOC with the help of IIT-Bombay has introduced the augmented reality (AR) based software (SetreoChem) for smartphones.
Cross-word puzzle has been introduced as one of the evaluation components.
M Jagadesh Kumar, vice chancellor of JNU, said, “Students dread Organic Chemistry as it is often taught at a fast pace due to the need to cover several topics. One way to remove fear of the subject is to encourage students to be active partners in the learning process. Animation through augmented reality software and cross word will have a positive impact on students’ learning.”
BS Balaji, associate professor, School of Biotechnology, JNU, who has developed the course said that, Many Chemistry topics deal with spatial arrangements of molecules and understanding these topics often requires individual access to 3D models. The AR-based app can help students to visualise and interact with spatially enhanced 3D models.
“Answering a crossword requires a high level accuracy which leaves no room fro guesswork. Many studies have also proven that cross word solving enhances problem solving skills and also boost ones’ confidence.”, he added.
According to AISHE report, the pass percentage has declined for MSc Chemistry students over the past 6-7 years (from 46.75 % in 2011-12 to 33.43% in 2016-17).
The course will aim to fill this gap.