Letters - September 2009

By 2009-09-01T00:00:00

Figure 1 - Belgian €0.20 coin with verdigris crystals on

Future chemists need to be problem solvers, Temperature - the hot topic of thermodynamics and Verdigris

Future chemists need to be problem solvers

Michael Akeroyd, Bradford College

I would like to comment on the recent letter by P. A. Barker on declining examination standards (Educ. Chem., 2009, 46 (3), 74). There seems to be general agreement that the future professional chemist needs to understand general principles, show aptitude for problem solving (not puzzle solving) and to have some background in biology (as well as maths and physics). But if the chemists of the future are going to save our civilisation they also need a background in fuzzy logic and systems thinking so that they can more accurately evaluate the potential consequences of their actions.   

In supporting our students to develop these skills the modern modular GCSE chemistry courses, which include units covering food chemistry, cosmetic chemistry, plastic chemistry, environmental chemistry and aspects of 'how science works', are not as 'dumbed down' as many traditionally minded chemists appear to think. Old fashioned, linear 'O-level' courses with their over-emphasis on algorithmic and propositional knowledge could equally be characterised as being 'dumbed up'. The recent reckless application of propositional knowledge and algorithmic reasoning in the financial sector provides some justification for this viewpoint. 

Thanks for using Education in Chemistry. You can view one Education in Chemistry article per month as a visitor. 

A photograph of a teacher standing in a white lab coat, speaking with a class of children in a laboratory, is superimposed on a colourful background. Text reads "Teach Chemistry means support for classroom and staff room".

Register for Teach Chemistry for free, unlimited access

Registration is open to all teachers and technicians at secondary schools, colleges and teacher training institutions in the UK and Ireland.

Get all this, plus much more:

  • unlimited access to resources, core practical videos and Education in Chemistry articles
  • teacher well-being toolkit, personal development resources and online assessments
  • applications for funding to support your lessons

Set up your Teach Chemistry account

Already a Teach Chemistry member? Sign in now.

Not eligible for Teach Chemistry? Sign up for a personal account instead, or you can also access all our resources with Royal Society of Chemistry membership.