Chemistry Teacher Trainees' Perceptions of Chemical Equilibrium

Abstract

This study investigated Ghanaian chemistry teacher trainees' understanding about chemical equilibrium. A total of 104 second year undergraduate teacher trainees participated in the study. A test consisting of ten, 2-tiered multiple choice questions were used to collect data on the trainees' conceptions about chemical equilibrium. The results from the study indicated that about 46% of the trainees had no conception about chemical equilibrium, while 32% had alternative conceptions, some of which had been identified in other studies in some parts of the world. About 50% of the trainees in this study, in addition, could not comprehend thoroughly on an abstract level. Neither could they appreciate the factors that influenced rates of chemical reactions, equilibrium shifts, nor their implications. In all, only about 23% of the participants understood the concept of chemical equilibrium. Eleven alternative concepts were identified. The use of interactive intervention was suggested for remediation.