Through this project, methods of scientific investigation are being taught in an investigatory laboratory setting. Students, working in teams, are designing methods for determining sources of variability in data resulting from measurements using balances, spectrophotometers, and dissolved oxygen probes. Each research team also identifies and delineates a specific problem whose investigation is tractable with available instruments and consistent with students' skills. The teams identify possible solutions to the problem, select one or more solutions for testing, devise an empirical test using available instruments, do the experiments, analyze the data, and draw appropriate conclusions. The projects are being presented both in written and oral formats to all members of the class. The intended outcomes from this laboratory are (1) improved skills in critical thinking and problem solving, (2) better understanding and appreciation of science, (3) improved communication and teamwork skills, (4) understanding simple statistical methods, (5) enhanced skill in obtaining electronically accessed data, and (6) enhanced attitude toward science.
