The lack of science research opportunities for high school students in many of our public schools places them at a disadvantage in comparison with schools that can afford to sustain research programs.  These disadvantages are more prevalent among students from low socioeconomic backgrounds and minority populations.  The issue does not end at the high school level; it continues as these students join higher level college courses, where once again they find themselves academically behind.  Also, as college acceptances get more competitive each year, many selective colleges require students to have educational experiences beyond the typical classroom curriculum, and in the sciences, that means internships or exposure to scientific research.  Providing students with action research opportunities is an excellent way to promote chemical education, and to expose students to much needed research experience for the benefit of future generations of chemistry students.  Next academic year, my students will be conducting South Florida waterways pollution studies using analytical chemistry techniques to track pollution levels in our system of canals, thus providing students experience with action research and chemistry education.

Action research for high school students: Promoting scientific understanding using analytical chemistry techniques

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

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