CHEMISTRY IN THE TIME OF COVID-19: REFLECTIONS ON A VERY UNUSUAL SEMESTER

Abstract

Educators around the world have been challenged to adapt their teaching and pastoral care rapidly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The academic members of the Chemistry Education and Communication Theme (CECR) from the School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney have reflected on the challenges and successes during this most unusual semester. As many would no doubt agree, the transition was rapid, and overwhelming with the sheer volume of shared resources and recommendations from our colleagues around the world. In this talk, we will discuss some of the specific tools and techniques employed across a range of teaching modes including lectures, tutorials, and the laboratory. Of particular note, we will explore the importance of communication and pastoral care that we found central to many of our teaching successes. While we recognise each classroom holds a unique context, we believe that the sharing and discussion of our communities’ journeys in navigating this time will hold valuable lessons to inform both our immediate practice and the long-term impact on our teaching.