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Abstract
In the fall of 2012, 20 General Chemistry Honors students at the University of New Haven were issued the new iPad 3 to incorporate these devices both in the classroom and the laboratory. This paper will focus on the integration of the iPad into the laboratory curriculum while creating a paperless experience, an environment where no paper would enter or be used for the laboratory over the course of the year. Specific apps were chosen that would allow for an easy transition of course materials into an electronic format. After a transition period for the students and instructor, the overall experience has been a positive one and can easily be implemented into any teaching laboratory..
Introduction
New technology is constantly making its way into the classroom in an attempt to improve the learning experience (Melhuish, K. & Falloon, G., 2010). With society's current focus on STEM education and technology, there have been recent opportunities to incorporate technology into the learning process at all levels. Recently, more sophisticated video games, some on handheld devices, are making their way into to K-12 classrooms in an attempt to foster STEM skills for the next generation. Using technology in this manner is gaining increasing support as government leaders see this as a way of engaging more students in STEM disciplines and with 93 percent of schools having internet access, it makes the use of educational games a way to sparks students' interest in particular subject areas (Rowley, 2012; Center for Digital Education, 2012). The Technology Outlook for STEM + Education 2012-2017 (2012) anticipates this trend to continue and additionally be used to assess student learning in STEM topics. Johnson, Adams and Cummins (2012) stated, "games have proven benefits in engaging learners of all ages and helping them better understand complex material. Taking that notion one step further, simulations and game-based scenarios enable students to apply what they have learned in a realistic environment and receive instant feedback. Other uses, such as 3D model manipulations of macromolecules like DNA and proteins and the use of electronic white boards in elementary classrooms, illustrate the ways that new technology is being incorporated into the elementary classroom with an emphasis on science and engineering education (Center for Digital Education, 2012).
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