This project is integrating Fourier Transform Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (FT-NMR) spectroscopy instrumentation across the chemistry curriculum at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey (UPR-Cayey). With the help of Anasazi 60 MHz FT-NMR instrument a carefully selected sequence of FT-NMR experiments and research-based projects are being adapted and implemented. . A number of experiments from the Chemical Education literature are being added to the curriculum. The exploratory phase of the project is being implemented over a period of 2 years. By combining well documented strategies such as hands-on use of instrumentation with research-based pedagogy it is expected that the students will go from being passive receivers of information to inquirers. UPR-Cayey educates underrepresented Hispanics students, with more than 60% female science majors. The Chemistry Department enrolls 200 majors and 100 non-majors/year, including science education students. Implementation of research-based and inquiry-based methodologies, using FT-NMR experiences, into the chemistry curriculum will provide a model to other institutions locally and in the United States that serve a similar student body size or demographics. By implementing these changes the Chemistry department hopes to obtain ACS accreditation.
