Incorporating active learning strategies into the structure of a higher-level undergraduate instrumental analysis laboratory can be challenging given that one course goal is to instruct students in the critical facets of many different analytical methods. The traditional protocol-based ‘observe and record’ format often used for these experiments is efficient in covering course material, but it does not provide any obvious opportunity to integrate active learning activities.<br/>To overcome this limitation, we have recently created a ‘hybrid’ active learning course structure for a higher-level instrumental analysis laboratory. The hybrid strategy engages students in active learning activities while retaining many of the aspects of the conventional ‘technique-of-the-week’ approach. Each laboratory period begins with an active learning activity centered around a semester-long group method-development project. By using methods development and measurement validation as the focus of the project, specific criteria for the chemical measurement are used to structure the goal-oriented project. This group project is pursued alongside the conventional technique-based weekly experiments. We find the structure has several advantages. First, the semester-long group project creates a cohesive group dynamic that can exploit team-learning. Second, the focus on the method validation theme reinforces content that is often not included in these laboratory courses, but is of critical importance in the industrial workplace. Third, measurement concepts covered in the project portion of the course can also be discussed in the context of the weekly experiments. Finally, by focusing on meeting specific measurement requirements, students are obligated to interpret and critically review their results, and in some cases to repeat and refine their experiments.<br/>This paper will describe the course structure, active learning activities, and comment on the guided interpretation of method development that is used in the laboratory. Specific active learning materials will be discussed, and assessment of the learning outcomes from this new course structure examined.

Hybrid active learning approach in the instrumental analysis laboratory: Focusing on method development and validation

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

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