In 2008 the ACS Division of Chemical Education started the Elements on Facebook Project (EFP) to create a Facebook page for each element and build public participation through the Facebook “fan” feature. Fans are permitted to post comments on the profile, enabling them to add the same type of information as the profile creator, such as pictures, videos, etc. Fan-added data is visually distinguished from the date of the profile creator’s, through use of “picture signatures”. The EFP home page (at the ChemEd Digital Library’s ChemCollaborative wiki) is an interactive periodic table linked to the Facebook profile of any element. Basic information about the element is available, such as its discovery date and a photo, as well as comments by fans of the element. Fans can post anything that appropriately pertains to the element: to explain why it is a favorite, discuss unique uses for it, or even add jokes relating to its chemistry. Users can also post relevant photos, videos, and links to applicable Web sites on the element’s profile page. Many fans have already expanded their favorite element’s profile by adding materials regarding an element, such as links to forums, current literature, and even humorous online videos. The EFP is a great way to share information and find others who have the same periodic passions as you do.
More Information
Citation
Groat, Rachel K.; Jacobsen, Erica K. J. Chem. Educ.2009, 86, 1168.
Keywords
Descriptive Chemistry; Elementary / Middle School Science; First-Year Undergraduate / General; General Public; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Inorganic Chemistry; Internet / Web-Based Learning; Public Understanding / Outreach
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