The Chemistry Department at Western Kentucky University is implementing a new, interdisciplinary laboratory course for its senior undergraduate chemistry majors. Several new experiments are proposed, many of which require use of a modern FT-NMR spectrometer. These experiments enhance laboratory skills and critical thinking with regard to: (1) stereochemical concepts, (2) chemical dynamics, (3) structure determination, (4) synthetic methodologies, and (5) molecular modeling. The upgraded FT-NMR plays a vital role in these experiments. Development of these experiments involves four faculty and between ten and twenty undergraduate students over the two year period of the grant. The goal of this project is to implement a new, interdisciplinary advanced laboratory course for senior chemistry majors. Other existing courses benefit through modernization of the FT NMR spectrometer. A significant filter-down effect of lab experiments and student expertise (as lab TA's) also enhances the lower-level courses.
