While scanning electron micrographs are common in science textbooks, most students are limited to using light microscopes in laboratory exercises. This makes these text references abstract and prevents students from understanding them fully. Hands-on experience with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) can make this information more concrete. In order to provide this experience, the college is buying an SEM and supporting equipment for use in the science curriculum. This project enables science instructors to offer effective, innovative laboratory experiences to freshman and sophomore science students. Science students can use this technology in the existing curriculum, and instructors can produce instruction materials for use in their classes. The SEM is also be used to offer workshops for local secondary science teachers who need in-service training or who desire professional growth.
