Overcoming Visual–Spatial Challenges in Stereochemistry: Exploring a Structured and Collaborative Approach to Mastering Cyclohexane Conformations in Higher Education Chemistry

Stereochemistry is a conceptually demanding area of chemistry, requiring learners to mentally manipulate three-dimensional structures while applying multiple rules simultaneously. Traditional reliance on 2D diagrams and rote memorization can hinder mastery, particularly in predicting substituted cyclohexane conformations. This study explored a hybrid instructional method that integrates tabular representations with collaborative learning to reduce visuospatial barriers and support systematic reasoning. A single-stage cluster sample of graduate-level (M.Sc.) chemistry students (N = 40) from the University of Kerala participated in the intervention. Using a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, single-group quantitative pre–post analyses and paired-samples t tests indicated improvements in accuracy and reasoning within this cohort. Qualitative feedback corroborated these trends, suggesting that tabular frameworks may enhance recall, reduce cognitive load, and clarify rule integration through peer discussion. Together, the findings provide preliminary evidence that this structured and collaborative approach could serve as a low-cognitive-load pedagogy to support learning in stereochemistry, with potential implications for innovative instructional strategies in organic chemistry education.