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