A Synergistic Approach to Chemistry Education: Integrating QR Code Technology and Novel Laboratory Experiments to Bridge Post-Pandemic Learning Gaps
Faculty Mentor
Hannia Lujan-Upton
Major/Area of Research
Health Science, Chemistry, Biology
Description
INTRODUCTION: This study explores integrating QR codes and new experiments into an in-house chemistry laboratory manual to address learning gaps among post-pandemic health science students. Many students entering this prerequisite course experienced disrupted or limited exposure to high school chemistry, which has been reflected in lower course performance. Survey data collected from Fall 2024 to Fall 2025 revealed significant educational gaps, including 20% of students having no prior chemistry coursework and reduced standardized exam completion due to pandemic-related disruptions.
METHOD: Student questionnaires also indicated a strong preference for technology-based learning tools, which guided the implementation of QR codes in the laboratory manual. These codes link to instructional videos that demonstrate complex calculations, such as stoichiometry, percent yield, buffer systems, and gas laws, as well as proper laboratory techniques and safety procedures. Additional QR codes provide concise summaries that reinforce key concepts and connect laboratory work to lecture material.
RESULTS: Preliminary findings show that students responded positively to these resources, reporting improved comprehension and engagement. Building on this approach, the course incorporates laboratory experiments focused on clinically relevant topics, including buffers, acid-base balance, and conditions such as alkalosis and acidosis. Students will prepare and evaluate buffer systems, including acetate, phosphate, and carbonate, with the potential to explore lactate buffers.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The ultimate goal of this work is to enhance conceptual understanding, improve academic performance, and better prepare health science students for clinical applications, including success on the NCLEX licensure examination.
A Synergistic Approach to Chemistry Education: Integrating QR Code Technology and Novel Laboratory Experiments to Bridge Post-Pandemic Learning Gaps
INTRODUCTION: This study explores integrating QR codes and new experiments into an in-house chemistry laboratory manual to address learning gaps among post-pandemic health science students. Many students entering this prerequisite course experienced disrupted or limited exposure to high school chemistry, which has been reflected in lower course performance. Survey data collected from Fall 2024 to Fall 2025 revealed significant educational gaps, including 20% of students having no prior chemistry coursework and reduced standardized exam completion due to pandemic-related disruptions.
METHOD: Student questionnaires also indicated a strong preference for technology-based learning tools, which guided the implementation of QR codes in the laboratory manual. These codes link to instructional videos that demonstrate complex calculations, such as stoichiometry, percent yield, buffer systems, and gas laws, as well as proper laboratory techniques and safety procedures. Additional QR codes provide concise summaries that reinforce key concepts and connect laboratory work to lecture material.
RESULTS: Preliminary findings show that students responded positively to these resources, reporting improved comprehension and engagement. Building on this approach, the course incorporates laboratory experiments focused on clinically relevant topics, including buffers, acid-base balance, and conditions such as alkalosis and acidosis. Students will prepare and evaluate buffer systems, including acetate, phosphate, and carbonate, with the potential to explore lactate buffers.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The ultimate goal of this work is to enhance conceptual understanding, improve academic performance, and better prepare health science students for clinical applications, including success on the NCLEX licensure examination.