Teaching use of formal thought for improved chemistry achievement

Attrition rates from the foundation science programme at the University of Papua New Guinea are high and related to an inability to use formal thought. An intervention measure with marginal students in this foundation course is reported here. This five‐week intensive intervention was intended to assist these marginal students to perform better on formal elements of the chemistry course. Short‐term beneficial effects of intervention were observed but these were not maintained once the intensive programme ceased.