A Computer-Assisted Learning System in the Teaching of Infrared Spectroscopy Course

In this paper, we present an infrared spectroscopy computer-assisted learning system (IRSCAL) using the computer as an interactive partner in problem solving activities. The software is designed to help the student with solving problems of their own choice, or those assigned by an instructor. It can be used as a tool to infrared spectroscopy learning, spectrum recognition training, optical data processing, and to give advice upon request without actually solving the problem itself. It includes an interactive interface, a spectrum simulator for graphical display of students' spectrum, a database which contains data on typical bands of chemical groups. A sample of fifty-five freshmen in college of chemistry in Central China Normal University completed a range of elementary school chemical problems.