ChemSkill Builder, Version 5.1 (Spain, James D.; Peters, Harold J.)

• Published in: Journal of Chemical Education 1998-07, Vol.75 (7), p.831
• Main Author: Peck, M. Larry
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Chemistry; Educational software; Electronic Equipment; Homework; Organic Chemistry; Thermodynamics
• ISSN: 0021-9584; 1938-1328
• DOI: 10.1021/ed075p831.1

James D. Spain and Harold J. Peters. Electronic Homework Systems, Inc.: 129 Leslie Lane, Pendleton, SC, 1997. ISBN 29670-9697. $19.50The day of electronic homework in general chemistry classes is rapidly approaching and, indeed, has arrived for many chemistry instructors. It is difficult to fully understand all the possibilities available, but the ChemSkill Builder should be considered by all criteria to be one of the best General Chemistry electronic homework packages.The package is a 3-disk set or a CD plus a record management disk. The program is divided into 24 chapters much like the topics of nearly all general chemistry textbooks. Each chapter is usually subdivided into four to six subsections. Each subsection contains instruction and a set of questions. Since the number of questions varies and the actual questions differ each time a student goes through the subunit, each student has a unique set of questions.Students can repeat subunits or entire chapters; their highest score will be recorded. The time spent on each subunit is also recorded. The scores can easily be downloaded to an electronic spreadsheet, gradebook, etc.The questions in this program range in difficulty. If one is not answered correctly, the computer offers helpful hints, and after two unsuccessful attempts the correct answer is given. The programs will not move to the next question until a question has been answered correctly or two wrong attempts have been entered. Partial credit is given when the correct answer is given on a second attempt. Especially during the first several chapters, the use of significant figures and the inclusion of units are strictly enforced.The program was found to be friendly. It is easy to use, has large visuals, gives friendly comments, is patient, and gives immediate feedback, and the information is very well encrypted. To our knowledge our students have not been successful in attempts to falsify data, etc. Most attempts yielded a program that no longer worked.Each of the 24 units contains sufficient introductory comments and examples that the unit can stand alone. As a result, students can be assigned to work units in a variety of sequences. For example, our students study thermodynamics before equilibrium.ChemSkill Builder contains only minimal graphics, pop-up tables, and animation. The graphics are simple but one needs to remember that this programs fits on just 3 disks and sells for only about $20.The program is not without its faults. For example