Harness first principles thinking in problem-based learning for chemical education

In philosophy and science, a first principle is a basic proposition or assumption that cannot be deduced from any other proposition or assumption. Ancient Greek philosophy Aristotle defined the first principle as “the first basis from which a thing is known.” First principles thinking (or reasoning from first principles) is a way of thinking and problem-solving that breaks down a complex problem into its most basic assumptions, facts, concepts, or ideas and then reassembles them from the bottom-up. In this paper, we reported our attempts to harness first principles thinking into problem-based learning (PBL) in chemistry education. Two PBL projects were elaborately designed respectively for two student groups. By utilizing the inquiry-based technique and jigsaw technique, the understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry was employed to guide the students´ research activity and strengthen the learning of chemistry. We also observed signs of increased creativity during the process. This communication indicated that first principles thinking could be harnessed to increase students´ learning depth and promote creativity in chemical education.