/MNQ vs. /MES: Trading Futures vs. Profitable Short Strangles with Risk Management & Hedging Strategies

Introduction

Trading futures and options on futures can be a highly rewarding strategy, but without proper risk management, it can also lead to large drawdowns. Like me, many traders, especially those focused on day trading /MNQ (Micro E-mini Nasdaq-100) futures, experience the emotional rollercoaster of massive intraday swings, which can make it difficult to maintain long-term profitability.

In this guide, we will compare /MNQ vs. /MES (Micro E-mini S&P 500) futures trading, break down an effective short strangle options strategy, and explore risk management techniques like hedging with futures and proper position sizing.

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1️⃣ /MNQ vs. /MES: Which Futures Market is Best for You?

A. Key Differences Between /MNQ and /MES

Factor	/MES (Micro S&P 500)	/MNQ (Micro Nasdaq-100)
Volatility	Lower (15–25% IV)	Higher (25–40% IV)
Daily Range	~30-50 points/day	~100-200 points/day
Margin Required	Lower	Higher
Liquidity	High (tight spreads)	Medium (wider spreads)
Risk of Stop-Outs	Lower (smoother trends)	Higher (aggressive moves)
Strike Selection (Options)	More predictable	Unpredictable
Best For	Trend following, options hedging	High IV premium collection, fast trades

B. Why /MNQ Can Be Risky for Day Trading

The Nasdaq-100 index is dominated by high-volatility stocks like Tesla (TSLA), Nvidia (NVDA), and Amazon (AMZN), which can lead to massive intraday swings. While this can create great opportunities, it also increases the risk of being stopped out before the market reverses.

🔴 Common Pitfalls of Trading /MNQ Futures:

• Overleveraging on high-volatility contracts (see Figure 1).
• Getting stopped out frequently due to rapid swings.
• Failing to hedge against extreme moves.

✅ Why /MES is a Safer Alternative:

• The S&P 500 is more diversified, leading to smoother trends (see Figure 2).
• Better for systematic strategies like trend-following or options hedging.
• Lower risk of account blow-ups compared to /MNQ.

C. Choosing the Right Futures Market for Your Strategy

• If you want big swings and fast profits → Trade /MNQ.
• If you want a more stable approach with fewer stop-outs → Trade /MES.
• If you use options strategies (like short strangles) → /MES works better for risk management.

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2️⃣ Profitable Short Strangle Strategy on /MES Options

A short strangle is a delta-neutral strategy where you sell both a call and a put at 1 standard deviation (≈16 delta) strikes to collect premium.

A. Why Short Strangles Work Well on /MES

✅ High win rate (≈80%) – Most options expire worthless.
✅ Theta decay helps profits – You make money as time passes.
✅ Less risk than trading naked futures – Since you’re neutral, you’re not betting on direction.

B. Setting Up the Short Strangle

1. Sell a Call Option at ~16 Delta
2. Sell a Put Option at ~16 Delta
3. 45 Days to Expiration (DTE) → Best balance between premium & risk.
4. Exit at 50% profit or 21 DTE to avoid gamma risk.
5. Use a 200% premium stop-loss (If collected $5, stop at -$10).

C. Managing Risk: Stop-Loss & Rolling

• If the position moves against you, roll the untested side (e.g., if the call is in trouble, roll the put closer).
• If IV spikes, consider rolling the entire position to maintain a high probability of profit.
• Avoid trading in ultra-low IV environments (VIX below 15).

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3️⃣ Using Futures to Hedge Short Strangle Risk

A major concern with short strangles is the potential for large directional moves wiping out profits. One solution is to hedge with futures contracts.

A. How to Hedge with Futures

📌 Scenario 1: Market Drops Hard (Put side is in trouble)

• Go short 1 /MES contract to hedge against further downside moves.
• If the market rebounds, exit the hedge and let the short strangle profit.

📌 Scenario 2: Market Rallies Hard (Call side is in trouble)

• Go long 1 /MES contract to hedge against further upside moves.
• Close the hedge when the market stabilizes.

B. Futures vs. Rolling for Adjustments

• If IV is low, rolling works better than using futures.
• If IV is high, hedging with futures is more efficient than rolling.

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4️⃣ Position Sizing: Protecting Your Portfolio

No matter how good a strategy is, position sizing is crucial to avoid large drawdowns.

A. Ideal Position Sizing for Futures

• Risk no more than 1-2% of your account per trade.
• If your account is $50,000, risking $500-$1,000 per trade is reasonable.
• Avoid overleveraging – One bad move can blow up your account.

B. Position Sizing for Short Strangles

• Sell only as many contracts as your account can handle.
• Each short strangle should risk no more than 2% of your total portfolio.
• If you trade multiple short strangles, keep exposure balanced (e.g., don’t only short puts).

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Conclusion: The Best Strategy for Long-Term Success

If you’re frustrated with day trading /MNQ, moving to /MES futures or short strangles on /MES options can provide a more stable path to profitability.

🔹 The Best Approach for Most Traders:
✅ If you want smoother trading, switch from /MNQ to /MES futures.
✅ If you want consistent income, trade short strangles on /MES.
✅ Use futures contracts to hedge against large directional moves.
✅ Always maintain proper position sizing to avoid large drawdowns.

By focusing on high-probability trades, risk management, and strategic hedging, you can rebuild and grow your trading account without excessive risk.

Are you currently trading /MNQ, /MES, or short strangles? Let me know! 🚀

I’ve often found myself grappling with the sheer volume of the Skyline science curriculum. While the intent behind this comprehensive curriculum is admirable, its implementation in the classroom can be challenging due to several factors:

Prerequisite Knowledge and Time Constraints

One significant hurdle is the assumption of prerequisite knowledge. The curriculum often builds upon concepts that students may not have fully grasped in previous grades. This can lead to a frustrating cycle of trying to fill in knowledge gaps while simultaneously covering new material.

Time constraints are another major obstacle. The school year is finite, and the amount of content to be covered is immense. Teachers are often forced to rush through lessons or skip topics altogether, compromising the depth of understanding.

The Art of Curricular Pruning

Given these challenges, teachers must make strategic decisions about what to include and what to exclude from the curriculum. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Standardized Test Alignment: Prioritize topics that are frequently tested on standardized exams. This ensures that students are well-prepared for these assessments, which can significantly impact their future academic and career opportunities.
2. Student Interest and Engagement: Consider the interests and learning styles of your students. Incorporating hands-on activities, real-world applications, and engaging technology can make the learning experience more enjoyable and effective.
3. Long-Term Goals: Think about the skills and knowledge that will be most beneficial to students in the long run. Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry skills, rather than simply memorizing facts.
4. Teacher Expertise: Teach what you know best. If you have a strong background in a particular topic, you’ll be more confident and enthusiastic when teaching it.

A Balanced Approach: Teaching, Instructional Design, Implementation, and Assessment

To effectively navigate the Skyline science curriculum, teachers must strike a balance between teaching, instructional design, implementation, and assessment. Here are some tips:

• Clear Learning Objectives: Clearly define what you want students to learn from each lesson. This will help you focus your instruction and create targeted assessments. See Hitting the Bullseye with Learning Targets: A Formative Learning Cycle Approach.
• Engaging Activities: Use a variety of teaching strategies, such as hands-on experiments, simulations, and group work, to keep students engaged and motivated.
• Effective Assessment: Use a variety of assessment tools, such as quizzes, tests, projects, and performance tasks, to measure student learning.
• Data-Driven Instruction: Use assessment data to inform your instruction and make adjustments as needed.
• Collaboration with Colleagues: Collaborate with other science teachers to share ideas, resources, and best practices.

By carefully considering these factors and adopting a flexible approach, teachers can effectively navigate the Skyline science curriculum and provide their students with a high-quality science education.

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, educators constantly seek effective strategies to enhance student learning and engagement. One such strategy that has gained significant traction is the use of learning targets in conjunction with the Formative Learning Cycle Framework. This powerful combination empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey and provides teachers with a roadmap for effective instruction and assessment.

What Exactly are Learning Targets?

Learning targets are concise, student-friendly descriptions of what students should know, understand, and be able to do by the end of a lesson or unit¹. They act as clear and specific goals that guide students’ learning process. Unlike traditional instructional objectives, which are often teacher-centric, learning targets are designed to be accessible and meaningful to students, enabling them to actively participate in their educational journey².

Effective learning targets are:

• Clearly defined: They use precise language that avoids ambiguity and ensures students understand what is expected of them.
• Student-friendly: They are written in a language that students can easily comprehend, using age-appropriate vocabulary and avoiding jargon.
• Specific and measurable: They focus on a particular skill or concept and provide a clear indication of what mastery looks like.
• Attainable: They are challenging yet achievable, encouraging students to strive for success.

Furthermore, learning targets can be categorized into four distinct types³:

• Knowledge Targets: These focus on factual information, concepts, and vocabulary. Examples include: “I can identify the parts of a plant cell” or “I can define the term ‘metaphor’.”
• Reasoning Targets: These emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and analysis. Examples include: “I can explain the causes of the American Civil War” or “I can compare and contrast different types of renewable energy sources.”
• Skill Targets: These center on the development of specific skills, such as writing, reading, or mathematical computation. Examples include: “I can write a persuasive essay with a clear thesis statement” or “I can solve quadratic equations.”
• Product Targets: These involve the creation of a tangible product, such as a research paper, a science project, or a work of art. Examples include: “I can design and conduct an experiment to test the effects of different fertilizers on plant growth” or “I can create a painting that uses light and shadow to create depth.”

The Formative Learning Cycle Framework: A Guiding Light

The Formative Learning Cycle Framework provides a structured approach to using assessment to inform instruction and improve student learning. It involves a continuous cycle of setting clear learning goals, gathering evidence of student learning, interpreting that evidence, and using it to adjust instruction and provide feedback⁴. This iterative process allows teachers to tailor their teaching to meet the individual needs of their students and to create a dynamic learning environment where students are actively involved in monitoring their progress.

A key aspect of the Formative Learning Cycle Framework is the emphasis on student self-assessment and reflection⁵. By encouraging students to actively participate in evaluating their own learning, teachers empower them to take ownership of their educational journey. This fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages students to become more self-directed learners.

Creating Learning Targets with the Formative Learning Cycle Framework

Now that we have a solid understanding of the Formative Learning Cycle Framework, let’s explore how it can be used to create effective learning targets. The framework provides a valuable structure for this process:

1. Clearly outline the key concepts and skills: Start by clearly outlining the key concepts, knowledge, and skills that students should acquire by the end of the lesson or unit. These goals should be aligned with curriculum standards and learning objectives⁶. For example, in a unit on fractions, a learning goal might be for students to understand how to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators.
2. Transform goals into student-friendly targets: Translate these learning goals into clear, concise, and student-friendly language. Use “I can” statements to make the targets more personal and actionable for students 1. For instance, the learning goal mentioned above could be transformed into the learning target: “I can add and subtract fractions with different denominators.”
3. Gather evidence of student learning: Implement a variety of formative assessment methods, such as observations, quizzes, exit tickets, and student self-assessments, to gather evidence of student learning throughout the lesson or unit⁷. For example, you could use a quick quiz to assess students’ understanding of finding common denominators, or you could observe students working in small groups to solve fraction problems.
4. Analyze evidence and provide feedback: Carefully analyze the collected evidence to identify areas where students are excelling and areas where they may need additional support. Provide timely and specific feedback to students, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement⁸. For instance, if many students struggle with a particular concept on a quiz, you could provide targeted feedback and reteach the concept the following day.
5. Adjust instruction: Based on the analysis of student learning evidence, adjust your instruction to address any misconceptions or gaps in understanding 6. This may involve reteaching concepts, providing differentiated instruction, or offering additional practice opportunities. For example, if students struggle with adding fractions with unlike denominators, you might provide visual aids or manipulatives to help them grasp the concept. You could also differentiate instruction by providing more challenging problems for advanced learners and additional support for those who need it.

Incorporating the Four-Column Framework

To further enhance the creation of learning targets, consider incorporating the four-column framework from snippet⁹:

What am I learning?	What will I be able to do?	How will I be asked to show that I can do it?	How will I know I can do this?
The concept of fractions with unlike denominators	Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators	Solve word problems involving fractions with unlike denominators; Complete a worksheet with practice problems	I can accurately solve 80% of the problems on the worksheet

This framework encourages a deeper understanding of the learning target by prompting students to consider not only what they are learning but also how they will demonstrate their understanding and how they will know they have achieved mastery. By using this framework in conjunction with the Formative Learning Cycle, teachers can create comprehensive and effective learning targets that guide student learning and provide a clear path to success.

Examples of Learning Targets Created with the Formative Learning Cycle Framework

Here are a few examples of learning targets created using the Formative Learning Cycle Framework:

• Math: I can explain the relationship between decimals and fractions and convert between the two forms. This target aligns with the learning goal of understanding the connection between decimals and fractions. To gather evidence of learning, students could complete a worksheet with conversion problems or participate in a class activity where they represent decimals and fractions using visual models4.
• Science: I can design and conduct an experiment to test the effects of different variables on plant growth. This target stems from the learning goal of understanding the scientific method and the factors that influence plant growth. Students could demonstrate their learning by conducting an experiment, collecting data, and presenting their findings in a lab report4.
• Language Arts: I can analyze a character’s motivations and explain how they contribute to the plot of a story. This target is derived from the learning goal of understanding character development and plot structure. Students could demonstrate their learning by writing an essay analyzing a character from a novel or participating in a class discussion about character motivations4.

Conclusion: Why This Approach Matters

Using the Formative Learning Cycle Framework to create and implement learning targets offers several benefits:

• Increased student engagement and motivation: When students understand what they are learning and why it is important, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to succeed. Learning targets provide students with a clear sense of purpose and direction, making their learning more meaningful and relevant¹⁰.
• Improved student learning outcomes: By providing clear goals and regular feedback, learning targets help students focus their efforts and monitor their progress, leading to improved learning outcomes. When students know what they are aiming for, they can better track their progress and identify areas where they need to focus their attention¹⁰.
• Enhanced teacher effectiveness: The Formative Learning Cycle Framework provides teachers with a structured approach to assessment and instruction, allowing them to make data-driven decisions and tailor their teaching to meet the needs of all learners. By continuously gathering and analyzing evidence of student learning, teachers can identify areas where students are excelling and areas where they may need additional support¹⁰.
• A more student-centered learning environment: By shifting the focus from teacher-directed instruction to student-owned learning, learning targets empower students to take an active role in their education. When students are involved in setting learning targets and monitoring their progress, they become more invested in their learning and develop a sense of ownership over their educational journey¹⁰.
• Enhanced Student Ownership of Learning: Learning targets provide a sense of clarity and transparency. By aligning learning targets with curriculum standards and district-wide goals, schools can ensure that all students are working towards the same high expectations¹⁰.

In conclusion, learning targets and the Formative Learning Cycle Framework are powerful tools that can transform the learning experience for both students and teachers. By providing clear goals, ongoing feedback, and opportunities for self-reflection, this approach fosters a dynamic and effective learning environment where students thrive and reach their full potential. By embracing the power of learning targets and the Formative Learning Cycle Framework, educators can create a classroom where students are not just passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their own learning journey.

References

On Dec 15, 2023

Hi Professor Kahveci!

As the semester comes to a close, I wanted to reach out to you and thank you again for such a great semester. I was in your Friday lab at 11:30, and I thouroughly enjoyed your lectures and labs. I especially enjoyed your description of the research you have done, and I would love to hear more about your endeavors when school starts again. Again, thank you for such a great semester, I hope to be your student again soon!

Sincerely,

Maddy

Maddy took CHEM 161 Chem Structure & Properties Lab in Fall 2023. This email correspondence was posted with Maddy’s written permission via email on 12/15/2023.

Dear Friends!

I’m thrilled to share a significant milestone in my fitness journey – I’ve successfully achieved my weight goal! It’s been a challenging yet rewarding road, and I’m excited to update you on my progress.

The Victory: All Markers in the Green

After months of hard work and dedication, I’m delighted to report that all my health markers are finally in the green zone. It’s a remarkable feeling to see the positive changes reflected in every aspect of my well-being. From improved energy levels to better sleep quality, the transformation has been truly holistic.

Building Strength: Good Muscle Density Unlocked

One of the most satisfying aspects of this journey has been the development of good muscle density. Building and toning muscles not only contribute to a more sculpted physique but also enhance overall strength and functionality. It’s incredible to feel the difference in my day-to-day activities – from effortlessly lifting groceries to tackling a challenging workout routine challenging workout routine.

Setting the Bar Higher: The Next Goal

With this achievement as a solid foundation, I’m setting my sights on the next challenge: reaching 12% body fat. This goal represents a new frontier, and I’m eager to see how far I can push myself. While it’s a challenging target, I believe that with consistent effort and a strategic approach, it’s entirely within reach.

Is It Achievable? Let’s Find Out!

Embarking on this new goal sparks a mix of excitement and curiosity. Is it achievable? The only way to find out is to dive in and give it my all. The journey to 12% body fat will undoubtedly require focus, discipline, and perhaps a few tweaks to my current routine. But the potential benefits – both physical and mental – make it a goal worth pursuing.

Join Me on the Journey

I invite you to follow along as I navigate the path to achieving 12% body fat. I’ll be sharing insights, challenges, and victories along the way. Whether you’re on a similar journey or looking for inspiration to kickstart your own fitness goals, let’s support each other in our pursuit of a healthier, more vibrant life.

Conclusion: A Journey of Growth

As I reflect on the accomplishments so far and look ahead to the challenges awaiting me, I’m reminded that the true beauty of a fitness journey lies in the growth it brings. Each milestone reached, every hurdle overcome, contributes to personal development and resilience.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Here’s to celebrating victories, embracing challenges, and discovering the strength we never knew we had.

Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s crush those fitness goals together!

Greetings fellow fitness enthusiasts!

I’m thrilled to share my ongoing journey towards achieving a remarkable goal: attaining 12% body fat. With a solid foundation established through intermittent fasting, a keto diet, and five days a week of dedicated gym training, I’m eager to set new frontiers and push my limits. This ambitious target, though challenging, holds the promise of being entirely within reach with a consistent effort and a strategic approach.

Holistic Lifestyle Integration

As I embark on this quest for 12% body fat, I’m integrating my well-established routines of intermittent fasting, keto diet adherence, and dedicated gym sessions into a holistic lifestyle approach. Balancing these components ensures a comprehensive and sustainable path towards achieving my goal.

Here is the pertinent post in the December 2023 update.

Fine-Tuning the Keto Diet

While already committed to a keto diet, I’m exploring ways to fine-tune it to optimize fat loss while preserving muscle mass. This involves experimenting with macro ratios, incorporating nutrient-dense foods, and maintaining a mindful approach to dietary choices.

1. High Fat, Low Carb: The Keto diet is characterized by a high intake of healthy fats, a moderate amount of protein, and a very low carbohydrate intake. This dietary approach aims to shift the body into a state of ketosis, where it primarily uses fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.

2. Ketosis and Fat Adaptation: By restricting carbohydrate intake, the body’s glucose levels drop, prompting the liver to produce ketones from stored fat. This metabolic state, known as ketosis, not only aids in fat loss but also enhances mental clarity and energy levels. Over time, the body becomes more efficient at utilizing fats for energy, leading to fat adaptation.

3. Whole Foods Emphasis: A well-balanced Keto diet emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods such as avocados, nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and leafy greens. These foods provide essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants.

Mindful Intermittent Fasting

Building upon my intermittent fasting routine, I’m incorporating mindful practices to enhance its effectiveness. This includes paying attention to nutrient timing, optimizing the fasting window, and staying attuned to my body’s signals for optimal results.

1. One Meal a Day (OMAD): Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. The OMAD approach takes this a step further, condensing the daily eating window to just one meal. This extended fasting period enhances the benefits of ketosis and promotes autophagy, a cellular repair process.

2. Insulin Sensitivity: By restricting the eating window, OMAD improves insulin sensitivity. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals aiming to manage weight, as enhanced insulin sensitivity promotes efficient glucose metabolism and reduces the risk of insulin resistance.

3. Fat Burning and Cellular Repair: The extended fasting period of OMAD encourages the body to tap into stored fat for energy. Additionally, during fasting, cells undergo autophagy, a process where they remove damaged components, promoting cellular repair and longevity.

In reference to autophagy, Harvard Medical School genetics professor David Sinclair explores the insights from his latest book, “Lifespan¹,” where he distills his advanced research discoveries on the biological mechanisms influencing aging. Sinclair outlines current lifestyle adjustments that can be implemented to address aging and delves into prospective scientific advancements that hold the potential to decelerate, and in some cases, reverse the aging trajectory.

Synergy of Keto and OMAD

1. Amplified Fat Burning: The combination of a Keto diet and OMAD maximizes the utilization of stored fat for energy. With limited glucose from carbohydrates, the body relies on ketones and fat stores during fasting periods.

2. Improved Mental Clarity: The steady supply of ketones to the brain, coupled with the cognitive benefits of intermittent fasting, can result in improved mental clarity and focus.

3. Weight Management: The synergistic effects of both approaches contribute to effective weight management by promoting fat loss, preserving lean muscle mass, and regulating appetite.

In summary, the Keto diet, especially when paired with intermittent fasting (OMAD), creates a powerful synergy for those seeking fat loss, improved metabolic health, and enhanced overall well-being. It’s essential to personalize these dietary strategies based on individual goals, preferences, and health conditions. As with any significant dietary change, consulting with a healthcare professional or nutrition expert is advisable to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach.

Strategic Gym Training

To support the reduction in body fat percentage, my gym training is taking a strategic turn. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and targeted strength exercises are becoming central elements of my routine. This not only accelerates fat burning but also contributes to the development and preservation of lean muscle mass.

Monitoring Progress

A key aspect of any fitness journey is monitoring progress. Regular assessments, body composition measurements, and adjustments to the plan based on outcomes play a crucial role in staying on track and making informed decisions.

I am currently consulting with my physician, however in the long run I plan to use the service by InsideTracker. Utilizing a patented algorithm, the platform conducts a thorough analysis of biomarker data encompassing blood, DNA, lifestyle, and fitness trackers. Users are empowered to lead longer, healthier lives by receiving personalized action plans rooted in scientifically supported recommendations. The platform also facilitates the monitoring of positive progress resulting from implemented behavior changes.

Community Support

The journey to 12% body fat is undoubtedly challenging, but I believe in the power of community support. Sharing experiences, challenges, and victories with like-minded individuals provides motivation and accountability. I invite you to join me on this exciting venture, sharing insights and cheering each other on.

Conclusion: Aiming High, Achieving Higher

As I set my sights on the challenging yet achievable goal of 12% body fat, I’m excited about the holistic approach I’m adopting. It’s not just about reaching a numerical target; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that promotes long-term well-being. Here’s to pushing boundaries, celebrating victories, and thriving together on the journey to optimal health.

Stay tuned for updates, tips, and shared triumphs. Let’s conquer this milestone together!

I am excited to share that our paper, “Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity: Legislate or Educate?”, has been accepted for presentation at the PUPP International Summit, which will take place in Gatineau-Ottawa, Canada, from May 21 to 24, 2024. This paper is the result of a collaborative effort among six researchers from different disciplines at Loyola University Chicago, stemming from the AITA Project.

In this paper, we explore the impact of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, on academic integrity in a U.S. college. We use a participatory action research approach and involve various university stakeholders, such as students, faculty, librarians, and administrators, in data collection and analysis. We aim to understand how AI tools are used for teaching and learning purposes, what benefits and challenges they bring, and how they affect the ethical and appropriate use of information. We also examine the current policies and practices of academic integrity in the context of AI development and suggest ways to improve them.

We adopt a critical media/information literacy perspective and argue that academic integrity is not only a matter of rules and regulations, but also a matter of education and empowerment. We propose that generative AI tools can be used as an opportunity to enhance students’ critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills, as well as their awareness of ethical issues and social responsibility. We also highlight the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders to foster a culture of academic integrity that embraces innovation and diversity.

We look forward to presenting our paper at the PUPP International Summit and engaging with other researchers and practitioners who are interested in this topic. We hope that our paper will contribute to the literature on academic integrity in the age of AI and spark further discussion and action.

Synopsis

EChEmpower is a groundbreaking research initiative focused on revolutionizing general chemistry education. With the aim of identifying and rectifying student misconceptions, our diverse team of experts collaborates with faculty members specializing in general chemistry over two distinct phases from Fall 2023 to Spring 2025.

Background and Motivation

EChEmpower is motivated by the pressing need to enhance the quality of general chemistry education. Many students struggle with misconceptions that hinder their progress in science-related fields. Our project seeks innovative pedagogical approaches to rectify these misconceptions and improve the overall learning experience.

Collaborative Approach

EChEmpower promotes collaboration between faculty members teaching general chemistry and pedagogy experts to address the challenges in chemistry education effectively.

Research Phases

• Phase 1 (Fall 2023 - Spring 2024): In this phase, we identify common student misconceptions, develop diagnostic tools, and conduct a pilot study to assess their effectiveness.

• Phase 2 (Fall 2024 - Spring 2025): We collect data and assess the impact of adjustments to teaching strategies based on Phase 1 findings.

Pedagogical Frameworks

EChEmpower employs innovative pedagogical frameworks like student-centered design and constructivist epistemology within the context of Ignatian Pedagogy to address misconceptions.

Outcomes and Contribution

EChEmpower aims to enhance general chemistry education through evidence-based teaching strategies, promoting student-centered design, and constructivism, improving students’ ability to master key concepts.

Research Dissemination

We will share our findings at renowned conferences in Chemistry Education Research and publish in peer-reviewed journals to make our research accessible to educators, researchers, and practitioners in the field.

Conclusion

In summary, the EChEmpower project strives to enhance general chemistry education through innovative pedagogical approaches, foster collaboration, and share its findings widely. Join us in transforming the educational experience in general chemistry.