Use of the primary literature in a quantitative analysis course is described. Students complete four literature-based assignments during the semester. These assignments require students to closely read articles relevant to analytical chemistry and to then answer a series of questions designed to help students understand the main point of the paper and the figures within it. In addition, the exercise provides students with practice in the interpretation of statistical data, the use of spreadsheets, critical evaluation of scientific evidence, and insight into the variety of work that analytical chemists might do. Criteria for selecting the articles are described and two sample assignments are presented.
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Citation
Roecker, Lee. J. Chem. Educ.2007, 84, 1380.
Keywords
Analytical Chemistry; Chemical Education Research; Communication / Writing; Computer-Based Learning; Instrumental Methods; Second-Year Undergraduate; Student / Career Counseling
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