The Journal of Chemical Education, abbreviated J. Chem. Educ. (and often searched as “j chem ed” or “j chem edu”), is the go-to journal for anyone who teaches chemistry. It publishes tested laboratory experiments, classroom activities and research on how students learn. This guide explains what it covers, how teachers and lab instructors use it, and how to get the most from it.
JCE at a glance
| Publisher | American Chemical Society, with its Division of Chemical Education |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1924 |
| Audience | School, college and university chemistry educators |
| Standard abbreviation | J. Chem. Educ. |
What it publishes
- Laboratory experiments: complete, classroom-tested practicals with instructor notes, hazard information and expected results.
- Activities and demonstrations for lectures and outreach.
- Chemical education research: studies of how students learn and which teaching methods work.
- Technology reports on software, simulations and low-cost instruments.
- Commentaries and reviews on curriculum and teaching practice.
Using JCE experiments for laboratory practicals
A published experiment is a great starting point, but it was tested in someone else’s lab. Before running it:
- Read the supporting information, which usually holds student handouts, instructor notes and hazard tables.
- Do your own risk assessment under local rules, such as COSHH in the UK or your institution’s chemical hygiene plan in the USA. Schools in the UK can also use CLEAPSS guidance.
- Check chemical availability; some reagents may be restricted or unsuitable for school use in your country. See how to buy chemicals safely and legally.
- Run it yourself first at the scale students will use, and note timings and pitfalls.
- Plan waste disposal before the class, not after.
Classic teaching syntheses, such as making dibenzylideneacetone by aldol condensation, are good examples of experiments refined over many years in teaching labs.
How to access and cite JCE
- Many universities subscribe through ACS Publications; some articles are open access.
- ACS membership options for educators can include journal access.
- Cite as: Author(s). Title. J. Chem. Educ. Year, Volume, pages. DOI.
Other useful resources for chemistry educators
- Royal Society of Chemistry Education resources and the magazine Education in Chemistry.
- Chemistry Education Research and Practice (RSC), for education research.
- Our guides to lab supplies and lab equipment for setting up teaching labs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Journal of Chemical Education peer reviewed?
Yes. Articles, including laboratory experiments, go through peer review.
Can I use JCE experiments in a secondary school?
Many are suitable or adaptable, but always check against your school’s safety rules and local guidance first.
What does “J Chem Educ” stand for?
It is the standard abbreviation of the Journal of Chemical Education.
