Chem Education

The Division of Chemical Education is composed of  RACI members who are actively working to improve the teaching and learning of chemistry at both the secondary and tertiary levels in Australia and internationally. 


The Division of Chemical Education was founded in the late 1960s and is one of the earliest-established chemical education-focused groups in the world. The early activities centred around outreach activities in the broader community and targeting the secondary education level to promote interest in, and understanding of, chemistry. Over time, several activities shifted into state branch Chemical Education groups, and the division provides support to these groups to create activites and events for secondary teachers and students (including titration competition heats, crystal growing and lecture tours). In recent years, the division has worked to provide opportunities for the expansion of its networks and to support collaborations between educators in Australia..

Our Purpose

Current activities of the division include:

  • Provide a networking platform for those with a common interest across multiple education sectors
  • Disseminate the latest research in, and applications of, chemistry education and practice
  • Provide for the professional development of secondary and tertiary educators
  • Encourage students to embark on a career in chemical sciences and teaching

Divisional Committee

Chair Dr Reyne Pullen
Chair Elec Dr Dino Spagnoli
Secretary Dr Sara Kyne
Treasurer Dr Stephanie S. Schweiker
Past Chair A/Prof Erica Smith
ECR Representative Dr Stephen George-Williams

Regular Events

Our Chemical Education Division is very active in holding regular events. Highlights include:

  • The Division holds a symposium scheduled in between RACI Congress events which aims to bring together the diverse community representing chemistry educators (engaged in research and practice) who teach in tertiary and secondary contexts in Australia.

  • The Division organises events on Discipline Day at the Australian Conference for Science and Mathematics Education

  • The ChemNet forms a hub for members to share news and resources, a newsletter is emailed to ChemNet subscribers building strong communication for the Division and wider community of chemistry educators.

Chemical Education Awards

Apply now

Become Involved

If you would like more information on our Chemical Education Division, or how to become involved, please contact us below.

Contact Us

or via email: Chemed.div@raci.org.au

Explore the Community

 
Explore Australia's largest community of chemists. A dynamic online platform that fosters discussion, builds networks and offers professional growth opportunities. Join and enhance your connections, share knowledge, and stay at the forefront of chemical advancements through conferences, seminars, workshops, and lectures.

Community Events List

The Chemistry Discipline Network

The Primary way in which we communicate with our division is via The Chemistry Discipline Network. The Network was funded by the Australian Learning and Teaching Council from 2011 - 2013. The network continues as a way to connect people with an interest in tertiary chemistry education.

Link here