The Department of Chemistry at Howard University is revising its Instrumental Analysis Chemistry lecture and laboratory courses to emphasize (1) team project based laboratory exercises and (2) the impact of analytical chemistry on shaping public policy.
The project-based labs being introduced in the Instrumental Analysis Laboratory are based on successful cooperative learning reform projects at other institutions. These projects are relevant to students in the program and bear on their career interests. The role science plays in public policy is a main focus of the new curriculum that is meant to help students see the relationship between chemistry and societal needs.
The redesigned lecture and laboratory is increasing students' exposure to recent advances in instrumental techniques, developing research skills, improving their oral and writing skills, and allowing them to actively explore the role of the analytical chemist in shaping public policy. The investigators are updating chromatographic equipment in the Instrumental Analysis Laboratory including gas, liquid and ion chromatography.
The objectives are (1) the nurturing and development of a cadre of minority chemists to become proficient at working in teams, (2) providing an opportunity for students to formulate and carry out independent and multidisciplinary research projects and to present their findings and (3) broadening the horizons of minority students entering the field of chemistry so that they are making connections with human needs outside of science.
