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2005
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In the Classroom
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Instrumental Proficiency Program for Undergraduates
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Duane E. Weisshaar, Gary W. Earl, Milton P. Hanson, Arlen E. Viste, R. Roy Kintner, and Jetty L. Duffy-Matzner
Department of Chemistry, Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD 57197
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June 2005
Vol. 82 No. 6
p. 898
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| Abstract |
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The instrument proficiency program was developed to complement coverage in the traditional curriculum by providing students with additional opportunities to gain in-depth experience with instrumentation and to make better use of departmental instruments without adding to faculty workloads. One aspect of the program is a series of one-credit-hour courses, each focusing on one or two instruments, that provide students an introduction to the theory, hands-on operation, and practice in data analysis and interpretation. These courses are designed to be self-directed, incorporate computer-based training programs when available, and allow student choice of projects. The second program is an instrument-supervision component for lab assistant assignments. Assistants, working with a faculty supervisor, (i) assume day-to-day care and maintenance of an instrument, (ii) train other assistants in start-up, operation, and shut-down of that instrument, and (iii) help develop labs using that instrument to be incorporated in other courses. The program has had a positive impact on our students’ career preparation and on how instruments are used in our program. Reflections on our experiences are presented, including the parts that work well and the short-comings encountered at this small, undergraduate institution that employs undergraduate lab assistants.
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| Supplement |
Examples of the course syllabi for the six proficiency courses are available.
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| More Information |
Citation |
Weisshaar, Duane E.; Earl, Gary W.; Hanson, Milton P.; Viste, Arlen E.; Kintner, R. Roy; Duffy-Matzner, Jetty L. J. Chem. Educ. 2005 82 898.
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Keywords |
Analytical Chemistry; Chemical Technicians; Curriculum; Distance Learning / Self Instruction; Instrumental Methods; Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus; Laboratory Management; Organic Chemistry; TA Training / Orientation; Upper-Division Undergraduate
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History |
Created:
Last Updated: |
April 27, 2005
May 6, 2005
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