Molecular Modeling and Visualization Tools in Science Education

1. Molecular Modeling and Visualization Tools in Science Education NARST Convention Philadelphia, PA March 23, 2003 ChemSense ChemViz Molecular Workbench Virtual Molecular Dynamics Lab

2. Why Do We Do This? • Computer modeling has provided a “window to the unseen” and transformed science research • Science learning is abstract especially when dealing with “what we cannot see” • The “GAP” between the research lab and the science classroom is getting smaller

3. Boston University:Virtual Molecular Dynamics Laboratory • Simple Molecular Dynamics 2-D Lennard-Jones Potential models monoatomic gases with focus on quantitative tools • Universal Molecular Dynamics 2- or 3-D interactive Square-Well Potential that models chemical reactions, polymers, or other complex intermolecular interactions • Water 3-D ice/water network employing research-based models

4. Temperature and States of Matter Ideal Gases Boyle’s Law Charles’ Law Avogadro’s Law Ideal Gas Law Dalton’s Law Real Gases Size of a molecule Molecule interaction parameter Energy and Intermolecular Forces Molecular Motion Graham’s Law Distribution of molecular velocities Heat transfer Thermochemistry Phase transitions Solutions Molecular Biology Protein Folding DNA Membranes and Transport Water Topics

5. What’s needed to make this work? • Pedagogically sound software tools • Appropriate linkages to wet labs • Curriculum that is accessible • Teacher professional development • Teacher curriculum development • Year-long teacher support • Opportunities for student/teacher research • After school or at-home reinforcement • Student support and connections to scientists • Education research and evaluation