The implementation of a multimedia program for first year university chemistry practicals

An interactive multimedia (IMM) program was developed at Potchefstroom Univ ersity to support the laboratory experience and training of first year chem istry students. It makes use of text, graphics and video images to demonstr ate the theory, procedures and techniques used in the prescribed experiment s. The results of a comparative study between this method and the tradition al method of prelaboratory preparation of learners is presented. Both quali tative and quantitative evidence support the positive outcome of the implem entation of computers as a teaching aid to meet the predefined objectives o f the first year chemistry laboratory course. It is evident that the usage of (IMM) software brought about a positive change in attitude towards chemi stry.