A Learning Object Model for Chemistry Courses

Currently, there are a large number of virtual learning objects (LOs) available to chemistry students and teachers. These LOs present interactive contents that complement the study of chemical phenomena in classrooms and laboratories. Given the diversity and heterogeneity of the educational contents addressed and the methods used by the available offer, the present work proposes a model to design and evaluate LOs, especially those that integrate simulation as a basic mechanism to support in particular practical activities. The simulation is proposed to help the student to put in practice chemical processes, prove the chemical model and validate theoretical concepts. A case study presents the structure of Biochemical courses composed of several LO's integrating the simulation mechanism. Finally, an evaluation instrument is proposed to identify how the simulation mechanism supports practical activities offered in a learning object as part of a chemistry course.