Why Should We Care?

I created this guide because of the importance of organic chemistry. Organic chemistry serves as the foundation for understanding the world's unique molecules that form basic life. We use organic chemistry in our everyday lives through the products we use and medications we take. Organic chemists are vital in developing pharmaceuticals, ensuring the safety and efficiency of a broad range of drugs. So, organic chemistry education acts as a catalyst for fostering knowledge on the medications we take, foods we eat, and even climate change. The future of chemistry is dependent on novices currently taking classes like organic chemistry, but so far educators have failed to provide sufficient knowledge and skills on the topic. 

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 Gaining meaningful chemistry knowledge is easier said than done. Organic chemistry students are compelled to engage in rigorous critical thinking because of the challenging nature of the curriculum. From understanding the mechanism of a new medication to naming a chemical in foods, organic chemistry education helps students gain the tools to engage meaningfully with the world around them. In essence, organic chemistry education should create knowledge but also create a mindset of inquiry and critical thinking. Organic chemistry education today, including curriculum and textbooks, diminishes the need for inquiry and critical thinking in novices. Even if novices do not intend to become chemists one day, most do plan to go to medical school, where critical thinking skills and questioning a vital aspects of being successful.

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Because of all of this, organic chemistry education as a discourse community/genre is lacking in standards. Through personally learning and experiencing this genre's complexities, I’ve seen the overuse of boosting/complex jargon in textbooks, the lack of multidisciplinary approaches, and little to no guidance for students. However, through this class and my previous writing classes, I have learned what a discourse community and genre should encompass. Specifically, I’ve learned discourse communities must use participatory mechanisms to provide information and feedback. Within the community of organic chemistry, the primary purpose of communicating should be to give feedback to one another. To foster a more inclusive environment, where novices can be successful and critically think, organic chemistry educators must prioritize participatory mechanisms for exchange, as well as actively engage in dialogue embracing diverse perspectives. This idea would create a collaborative environment for continuous improvements in organic chemistry education.