Chemical Education Journal (CEJ), Vol. 5, No. 2 /Registration No. 5-23/Received September 3, 2001.
URL = http://www.juen.ac.jp/scien/cssj/cejrnlE.html

European Chemistry Thematic Network (E.C.T.N.)
Over 100 Chemistry Departments from 30 European Countries

Pascal Mimero , Anthony Smith §

ESCPE Lyon, International Relations, 43 Bd du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622 VILLEURBANNE Cedex, France

 

E-mail: pascal.mimero@wanadoo.fr, smith@cpe.fr

 

Abstract : The European Chemistry Thematic Network (ECTN), established in 1996 with funding from the European Commission Socrates programme, has developed into a network of over 100 Institutions of Higher Education in 30 European countries. The ECTN is in the process of forming a non-profit making Association. All European HE Institutions are eligible to join this Association, and Institutions from non-European countries are invited to join as associate members.
The ECTN is an established forum for the exchange of ideas linked to the teaching and assessment of chemistry. The network helps to identify differences and similarities, and the strengths and limitations of educational systems, curricula, and teaching and assessment methods. In this way, the ECTN possesses a unique potential to bring together, to exchange, to develop and to disseminate expertise  and good practices.
A principal aim of the ECTN is the identification of that part of all first degree programmes that is common throughout Europe (core chemistry), in terms of content, learning outcomes, teaching methods and assessment. A number of ECTN working groups have considered this core chemistry, both theoretical and practical, as well as transferable skills needed by chemists (languages, communication skills, team working, Ö).
The ECTN is also concerned about the image of chemistry and is addressing this problem. A group has been established to identify, evaluate and translate key printed resource materials, and has established a web site to promote the image of chemistry.
We also have working groups considering the use of multimedia in chemistry education, green and sustainable chemistry, and food chemistry.

Keywords : Evaluation, Chemistry, Test, Europe, Green Chemistry, Computer-based test


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§ to whom correspondence should be addressed
http://www.ectn.net ; http://www.EChemTest.net


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