Integrating System-Oriented Concept Map Extension (SOCMEs) in collaborative online international learning to develop system thinking among undergraduate chemistry students in Indonesia and United States

Abstract The integration of innovative pedagogical approaches in environmental chemistry education is essential to foster a comprehensive understanding of global environmental issues. This study explores the application of System-Oriented Concept Map Extension (SOCME) within the context of a collaborative online international learning (COIL) program involving students from Indonesia and the United States of America (USA). The study involved a subset of undergraduate students ( N = 33) enrolled in various chemistry courses (general chemistry, organic chemistry, and environmental chemistry) who volunteered to participate in supplemental instruction offered jointly by an Indonesian university and a USA college. Students were organized into small groups and tasked with creating SOCMEs related to specific environmental issues. These SOCMEs were then presented and discussed during synchronous video conferencing sessions as part of the COIL activities. Data collection included post intervention surveys, SOCME diagram analysis, and observations of group interactions during the collaborative learning activities. The results showed that both the analysis of SOCME diagrams and the post-intervention questionnaire results indicate that Indonesian and USA students were able to develop meaningful connections between chemical concepts, environmental impacts, economic considerations, and societal issues.