Using online resources for studying chemistry is not a bad idea. After all, with so many available resources on the internet, you’re bound to learn a lot.
However, before you can embark on this challenging mission of learning chemistry online, you first need to know how to make the learning effective. Otherwise, your online study sessions might not bear any fruit.
Here’s how you can make the most of online chemistry resources:
Establish a Strong Foundation
As advised by Durham University, before delving into more advanced topics in chemistry, it’s essential to build a strong foundation in the fundamentals. Online study materials include a plethora of tutorials, textbooks, and interactive lessons that cover the basics of chemistry.
To establish this foundation effectively, start by reviewing the periodic table, atomic structure, chemical bonding, and the basic laws and principles of chemistry.
While studying the fundamentals, take notes and create concept maps to organize your thoughts and connections between different concepts. This will not only help you understand the subject better but also make it easier to revisit and revise later.
Some topics might require you to do some quick math. For instance, let’s say you’re trying to work out the molar mass of a compound. According to Proprep, a compound’s molar mass can be found by adding up the molar masses of each individual element in that compound. For such cases, having a strong foundation is a must. That’s because you’ll need to know about chemical formulas, molecular weight, concentration, etc. before you can work out the math.
Now, if you’re told to find the calcium hydroxide molar mass, you can easily do it. This formula or compound has hydrogen atoms as well as oxygen atoms. If you know how many of these atoms are present and what their respective molar masses are, you can easily find the molar mass.
The internet is flooded with information, some of which may not be accurate or suitable for your level of study. It’s crucial to select reliable and credible online resources.
Look for content created by reputable institutions or educators with expertise in chemistry. Academic websites, textbooks, and resources offered by well-known universities are generally trustworthy.
When searching for online resources, check for user reviews and recommendations. You can also ask your teachers or professors for suggestions. They may be familiar with the most effective online platforms for your specific curriculum or level of study.
Engage with Interactive Learning Tools
As highlighted by the University of Illinois Springfield, one of the advantages of online learning platforms is the availability of interactive learning tools. These tools can greatly enhance your understanding of chemistry by providing a hands-on experience. Some common interactive resources include virtual labs, simulations, and online quizzes.
Virtual labs allow you to conduct experiments and observe chemical reactions in a controlled online environment. These simulations can help you apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
Online quizzes and practice problems are essential for self-assessment. Regularly practicing through these will help reinforce your understanding of chemistry concepts.
Join Online Communities and Forums
Studying chemistry can sometimes be challenging, and you might encounter problems or concepts that seem difficult to grasp. This is where online chemistry communities can be incredibly beneficial.
According to the University of Edinburgh, forums and discussion groups can provide you with the opportunity to ask questions and learn from others. Engaging in discussions with fellow chemistry students can help you gain new insights, tackle difficult problems, and stay motivated throughout your study journey.
Create a Study Schedule
Effectively managing your time is a crucial aspect of successful chemistry study. Online resources can be a treasure trove of information, but without a structured study plan, it’s easy to become overwhelmed.
Create a study schedule that allows you to allocate time for different topics and resources. Consider your individual learning style and preferences. Some students may benefit from short, focused study sessions, while others may prefer longer, more immersive periods of learning. Experiment with different schedules to find what works best for you.
Review Regularly
Consistent review is essential for retaining and comprehending complex chemistry concepts. Online resources can facilitate this by providing a variety of materials for revision. As you progress in your chemistry studies, regularly revisit the foundational concepts you’ve learned, and gradually build upon them.
This not only helps cement your understanding but also makes it easier to connect new information to what you’ve already mastered.
Conclusion
By sticking to the tips above, you can make the online learning experience more effective. These tips will help you utilize all available resources to their maximum potential. That, in turn, will allow you to enhance your knowledge of various chemistry-related topics.
