The 20th ICCE satellite workshop whose theme was "The relevance of chemistry in a globalized society" was held at the University of Nairobi, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, Chiromo Campus from 11th - 12th August, 2008. Approximately 60 delegates from across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania were in attendance. The participants included University teaching staff, students and high school teachers.
The 20th ICCE satellite workshop
Copyright © 2009 Pan Africa Chemistry Network
ICT as a tool for collaborating in Chemistry, Low cost experiments in chemistry and the Public image of chemistry were presented as plenary lectures which were followed by group discussions. In ICT as a tool for collaborating in chemistry, it was noted that ICT is an important tool for disseminating information hence it should be embraced in the teaching of chemistry.
One of the greatest challenges however is the absence of a clear policy on the incorporation of ICT in teaching and learning at all levels of education.
On low cost experiments in schools, participants expressed great enthusiasm for the micro scale chemistry concept. Some teachers were however conservative and reluctant to change - an attitude which may be attributed to the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) policy regarding practical exams where only traditional macro scale equipments are used. A few schools which tried the micro scale KIT however noted that compared to the macro scale equipments
- Costs of equipments were reduced in the ratio of 20:1
- Chemical disposal is easy and environmentally friendly
- Accuracy is better in quantitative analysis e.g. Titration experiments
- Problem on shortage of laboratory is reduced
On Public image of chemistry, it was noted that the general public perception of chemistry is poor. This is because the job market is small, salary for chemists is low compared to other professions and the present university curriculum has little relevance to the market demands.
It was therefore recommended that the discipline of chemistry should be professionalized by laying more emphasis on practical work and also through diversification of course combination e.g. somebody can do law based on environmental chemistry. Chemistry students should also be attached to industries for deeper understanding of chemistry concepts.
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