Discovery Learning Using Chemland Simulation Software

We describe in this paper a set of computer-based simulations for use in general chemistry courses. We detail a discovery-based method of teaching, whereby students are led to discover concepts through guided-inquiry use of the simulation modules. Three methods of using the software are described, as is the development process we have employed. Finally, we describe our evaluation studies of the effects of our methodology and the use of a scientific reasoning instrument. The software is available free for download as part of this article.