Program Goals and Student Learning Objectives
Students who take chemistry courses develop skills that will benefit them in the future,
regardless of the path they take after leaving Ouachita.
Goal #1
Students will understand chemical function in terms of structure, thermodynamics, and kinetics.
Student Learning Objectives
- Predict products of chemical reactions.
- Explain patterns of chemical reactions.
- Explain and build models of chemical structures.
Goal #2
Students will master basic research skills.
Student Learning Objectives
- Use library and internet resources to locate information on chemical topics.
- Demonstrate mastery of common chemical laboratory techniques.
- Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing chemical instrumentation and other appropriate technology.
- Demonstrate ability to work in a cooperative environment.
- Show understanding of safe laboratory practice.
- Undertake a research project.
Goal #3
Students will be able to think critically and solve problems.
Student Learning Objectives
- Apply chemical concepts to problem solving.
- Plan laboratory syntheses.
- Analyze, interpret, and draw conclusions from data.
- Plan laboratory solutions to solve chemical problems.
Goal #4
Students will be able to communicate effectively via both written and oral expression.
Student Learning Objectives
- Explain chemical concepts.
- Write coherent laboratory reports.
- Present results to an audience of professors and peers.
- Defend experimental results and their interpretations through responses to oral questioning.
Goal #5
Students will understand the relationship between science and society.
Student Learning Objectives
- Interpret key events in the history of science in light of society at the time.
- Evaluate ethical cases in terms of moral decision making.
- Evaluate current issues in science and technology as they relate to society.
