Converting a Two-Week Chemistry Course for High School Students to a Virtual Format During COVID

A short course for high school students was converted from a two-week, in-person laboratory course to a remote and virtual four-week course due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students met virtually each day to participate in activities that included the following: presentations, demonstrations, interviews, group discussions, lessons, and virtual tours and field trips. The virtual version of the course was able to maintain the same learning objectives and activities when compared to the in-person session and integrated additional expanded lessons, kitchen chemistry activities, and an emphasis on careers in science in order to increase student engagement. Student feedback indicated that interest in a career in STEM was increased overall, and the incorporation of some of the newly introduced activities can be implemented into future versions of the course.