Since its inception in 1982, Project SERAPHIM has achieved great success in its three main functions: collector and disseminator of microcomputer-related instructional materials in chemistry; the conduct of workshops to train teachers to use computers effectively in classrooms and laboratories; and the development of innovative chemistry software. The project has developed collaborative efforts with other local and national projects and receives more than $150,000 annually from local school systems which use its materials or teacher development activities. The project now plans to enhance its dissemination efforts by preparing "Best of SERAPHIM" learning packets and by developing an electronic journal that will allow phasing out of its distribution function. New research and development efforts will include effective, instructive computerized experiments, a simple and inexpensive voltage interface, instrument simulators, and programmer's tools for new and existing microcomputers. Although the existence of microcomputers in precollege classrooms has grown significantly during the past few years, the creation of effective software has not kept pace. SERAPHIM is filling a great need in chemistry education through the development and evaluation of chemistry software. SERAPHIM's teacher development efforts have resulted in a network of chemistry faculty from both the precollege level and institutions of higher education, a collaboration which is enhancing learning in both areas. The project's efforts have demonstrated that the the microcomputer can be quite effectively used to aid students in learning chemistry as well as being a motivating factor. The store of quality chemistry software has benefitted enormously because of the work of SERAPHIM.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DRL)
Application #
8751262
Program Officer
Patricia A. Ferguson
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1987-05-15
Budget End
1990-12-01
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1987
Total Cost
$919,160
Indirect Cost
Name
Eastern Michigan University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Ypsilanti
State
MI
Country
United States
Zip Code
48197