Abstract: Students use Tinker toys® to construct a model of a three-dimensional object (various stuffed animals). Each person selects 25 random Tinker toys® pieces and begin as an individual builder for 5 minutes. Students then pair up and build a new model for trial 2. Trial three will use groups of 4 students. The final trial will be done as a large group of 8-10. Each model will be documented by photographs. Students will reflect on how the dynamics of the activity changed as the group size changed. As the group size increases, the time allotted for building also increases, in order to give more time for collaboration and communication between students.
Authors:
Karen Glenn, Chemistry Lab Coordinator/Instructor, Austin College
Karla McCain, Professor of Chemistry, Austin College
Andrew Carr, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Austin College
Stephanie Gould, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Austin College
Bradley Smucker, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Austin College
John Richardson, Associate Professor of Biochemistry, Austin College
Ryan Felix, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Austin College
Description of Integration into Course: Activity was used as an introduction to the concept of a model and the advantages/limitations of models for the first week of general chemistry laboratory.
Course(s) used in and enrollments: CHEM 111L – General Chemistry Lab (156 students)
Behaviors Taught: Interpersonal Communication, Collaborative Work
Leadership Theories Used: N/A
Time Required for Activity: 2.5 hours
Date Posted: June 23, 2017
Date Modified: None
Copyright and Permission to Use: N/A
Links to Similar Activities: None