Gradualism: A Method for Primary Instruction on Spectroscopic Analysis in Introductory Organic Chemistry

The pedagogical style of gradualism is described for the instruction of spectroscopic analysis in the introductory organic chemistry laboratory. Gradualism is defined as a series of steps or lessons that build one upon the other until the student is able to solve complex problems. Each step is briefly described as part of a pre-laboratory study assignment with follow-up application by students in analysis of spectral data obtained from their own products. Key advantages of gradualism over lecture instruction on spectroscopic analysis include liberation of lecture time for other essential objectives, incorporation of instruction into "wet" laboratories, utilization of an interactive learning process, and enhancement of student independence in the learning process. Online material for this article provides details of the curricular model for gradualism in the introductory organic chemistry laboratory and assessment data.