Insights and innovations for chemistry educators, sparking connections in every lesson.
What does it take to keep a nuclear reaction going? In this explainer, Dr. Naomi Lee of Northern Arizona University walks us through the process: how a single neutron striking a U-235 nucleus can trigger a cascade of fission reactions, releasing energy and more neutrons in the process.
To bring the concept to life, she demos the process using mouse traps and golf balls, a visualization of how chemistry fuels sustained reactions, both in the lab and in nuclear energy systems.
THE STORY OF REAL CHEM
Created in collaboration between Arizona State University and Carnegie Mellon University, REAL CHEM is designed to help educators engage, inspire, and build confidence in their general chemistry students.
Backed by years of teaching experience and learning science research, we are committed to the idea that reaching students with varying levels of academic preparation is the key to boosting their success. That’s why we developed cinematic videos that break down complex concepts, problem-solving assignments using real-world data, and active learning strategies to form the foundation of our courseware.
With over 11,000 students using REAL CHEM across 30 institutions, we’re making an impact on retention and student outcomes. When students see themselves in chemistry, they explore deeper, solve harder problems, and push their understanding further.
Let’s build bonds that last beyond the classroom.
— The REAL CHEM Team
11,000 students are using REAL CHEM
EDUCATOR'S CORNER
Amy E. Irwin, PhD
Chemist/OBM Dr. of
Documents/Faculty
Ambassador, REAL CHEM
Nuclear Chain Reactions
Three Mile Island
A nuclear chain reaction can spiral out of control if not carefully managed—something that nearly happened at Three Mile Island (TMI) in Pennsylvania in 1979. Though the incident caused no casualties or lasting environmental harm, it severely damaged public trust in nuclear energy and stalled its development in the U.S. The timing, just days after the release of the film The China Syndrome, amplified fears and fueled anti-nuclear sentiment. Public anxiety deepened after the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, contributing to a 20-year pause in building new U.S. reactors.
Today, despite lingering fears, nuclear energy is regaining attention as a clean, reliable power source—especially as energy demands surge due to technologies like artificial intelligence. AI consumes massive electricity: a ChatGPT search uses about 10 times more energy than a typical Google search, and training GPT-3 alone required 1,300 megawatt-hours—the yearly usage of 130 homes. By 2030, data centers powering AI could require 18 additional gigawatts, equivalent to tripling New York City’s entire grid capacity.
Given its small land footprint—requiring up to 15 times less space than other power sources—and zero carbon emissions, nuclear energy is emerging as a logical solution. Still, the legacy of TMI continues to shape public perception and regulation, showing how past events influence future energy choices.
— Amy E. Irwin, PhD
What's New at REAL CHEM?
EDUCAUSE 2025
We just got back from EDUCAUSE 2025 in Nashville, and we’re still buzzing from the energy and ideas!
It was such a joy to connect with faculty, instructional designers, and fellow chemistry enthusiasts who care deeply about making STEM more engaging and accessible. Whether we were showing off new features in REAL CHEM or just swapping stories about what’s working in the classroom, the conversations were real, thoughtful, and full of possibility.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by to talk chemistry with us! We’re already thinking about what’s next and how we can keep building meaningful learning experiences together.
REAL CHEM on the EdTech Elevated Podcast
Behind every course transformation is an educator who sees what’s possible. This November and December, REAL CHEM faculty innovators will be featured on the EdTech Elevated podcast by Partner in Publishing to share the stories, strategies, and mindset that fuel their work.
Dr. Gizelle Sherwood and Dr. Amy Burkert from Carnegie Mellon, Dr. Ashley Evanoski-Cole from Westfield State, and host Dr. Elaine Bernal from CSU Long Beach bring both subject matter expertise and a passion for chemistry instruction that’s designed to meet students where they are.
These conversations explore the vision of REAL CHEM, how it’s reshaping the student experience in general chemistry, and what it means to design courseware that truly supports learning.
Episodes drop in November and December on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Stay tuned! This series is packed with insight and inspiration.
Want to see what else we’ve been working on?
Click here to keep the conversation going and schedule a demo with our team
Events
Upcoming Opportunities
- REAL CHEM Faculty Innovation Webinar Series
Stay tuned and register for upcoming sessions! We’re sharing strategies to make science more welcoming and chemistry more engaging for all learners.
Some of our incredible faculty innovators recording content at EDUCAUSE 2025.
Get Involved with the REAL CHEM Community
Join the REAL CHEM Community of Practice
We’re bringing together chemistry educators who care deeply about making general chemistry better, for students and for the people who teach it.
At REAL CHEM, we believe change starts in conversation. That’s why we’re building a space where faculty can share what’s working, exchange ideas, and help shape new ways of teaching through active learning, real-world relevance, and student connection.
We’re also offering opportunities to collaborate on pilot programs, provide feedback on courseware, and get compensated for your insights.
Let’s reimagine general chemistry together.
