The goal of this study was to use art as a context for inquiry-based learning in secondary and undergraduate chemistry classrooms and labs. Inquiry-based learning is a strategy that can be used to engage students to increase interest in science classes, particularly for non-science majors. By incorporating art, laboratory experiments may appeal to students not generally interested in science by showing a real-world application of the techniques used. This experiment focuses on the study of inorganic pigments used in paintings throughout history. Some of the pigments studied were purchased from an art supply company; others were synthesized in the lab. Physical observations and chemical tests were performed to aid in pigment identification. In addition, various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, ncluding polarized microscopy, UV-visible absorbance, and UV-visible fluorescence, were explored. Using the information collected through analysis, a laboratory experiment was designed for use in a high school level or non-majors course.

Art as a context for inquiry-based learning in chemistry education

245th National Meeting (2013)

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