Scientific Vocabulary as a Measure of Evaluation of the Knowledge of Higher-Level Students in Spectroscopic Techniques

Volume 13, Number 1

Scientific Vocabulary as a Measure of Evaluation of the Knowledge of Higher-Level Students in Spectroscopic Techniques

Authors

Adolfo E. Obaya Valdivia ¹, Ricardo Velasco-Carrillo ², Sandy M. Pacheco Ortín ¹ and Benjamín Velasco-Bejarano ¹, ¹ National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico, ² Tecnológico Nacional de México, Mexico

Abstract

Knowledge of academic-scientific vocabulary in any field of study differentiates well-prepared university students from those with academic deficiencies. When analyzing the various elements that contribute to adequate scientific training of future chemistry professionals, it seems undoubted that the acquisition and correct use of basic academic-scientific language represents a transcendental factor in their professional success. The aim of this contribution is to evaluate the impact of learning specialized academic vocabulary in the students that attend a spectroscopic class, that is, vocabulary that belongs to a specific area or field of knowledge, on spectroscopic techniquesIt important to note that the aim and the scope of this contribution it doesn't consider the emotional or cognitive aspects of learning of specialized academic-scientific vocabulary. In this sense a methodological proposal is presented to evaluate in a practical, efficient and reliable way the acquisition of specialized academic-scientific vocabulary in a group of university students. With the results generated, it is proposed that certain activities be carried out through collaborative work by the students, to facilitate the learning and understanding of the academic scientific terms associated with the techniques of UV-Vis, IR, MS and NMR. Likewise, it is proposed to implement specific activities that reinforce the vocabulary of the UV-Vis technique. The findings of the study revealed not show a significant statistical difference regarding the management of scientific vocabulary between both genders.

Keywords

Scientific Vocabulary, Spectroscopy, Collaborative Work, Gender, Undergraduate Students