The analytical chemistry laboratory sequence is a two semester sequence where students are expected to acquire or refine skills related to laboratory/instrumental techniques, scientific record keeping and reporting with an emphasis on statistical data analysis. In the second semester instrumental chemistry laboratory, we implemented a project-based laboratory in which student groups proposed to conduct a research study on an instrument and sample of their choice. Each student group was responsible for searching relevant literature, arranging instrument training schedules, and troubleshooting experimental parameters. In addition, student groups rotated instrumental projects three times throughout the semester, with the original “parent” groups serving as supervisors of other groups working on their projects. Students reported their progress through weekly reports, chalk talks, posters at an undergraduate research symposium, standard operating procedures for instruments, and a comprehensive final report that combined all groups’ data on individual instrumental projects. Students demonstrated impressive ownership of their pet projects, were genuinely enthusiastic concerning their work, and gained significant experience with instrumentation.

Choose your own adventure in the instrumental analysis laboratory

ACS Spring 2022

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