Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurological disorder, affects 1 in 59 persons, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  Currently, the unemployment rate for those with ASD is 83%. Of the neurodiverse learners who have autism and attend college, approximately 35% declare a major in a STEM field, which is higher than the 23% of neurotypical students. However, the unemployment rate of those with ASD that have college degrees is 85%. The national unemployment rate is 4.5%, while the unemployment rate for those with disabilities is 20%. In order to bridge this employment gap, this study aims to provide those with ASD access to specialized laboratory equipment that are both safe and precise. Students in an analytical chemistry course at Morehouse College delve into a semester long project where active learning meets the world of “making” and the engineering design process. Students design and 3D print Quantitative Chemical Containers (QCCs) with fixed quantities in the Makerspace. After 3D printing the QCCs, students derive the uncertainty of their containers. Performing their own quality assurance for the QCC they printed includes determining the effects of varying pHs and temperatures of solutions on the container. Tests for robustness are also performed include applying stresses on the container to determine whether its able to maintain its structural integrity. Both a technical specifications document and process document are presented at the end. This active learning activity, where students are tasked with being consultants hired by a company desiring to hire those with ASD, give the students a chance to become process development and quality control specialists working on a real-world, relevant issue. Students have been enthusiastic about this project over the last 3 years of its implementation. This project adds relevance to topics that are frequently glossed over in analytical chemistry like precision, accuracy, and uncertainty.

3D printing of quantitative chemical containers (QCCs): Active learning activity for analytical chemistry

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.