In view of the mounting requirements for courses in nuclear chemistry and radiochemistry, hands-on experience in the separations of radioisotopes is imperative. Three separation techniques commonly used were introduced, coprecipitation, liquid-liquid extraction, and ion-exchange chromatography. Their principles and the associated fundamental…

This paper addresses the fundamentals, structuring, and application of a Formative Dimensions for Green and Sustainable Chemical Education (Formative Dimensions -- GSCE) qualitative evaluation tool of experimental processes. This instrument was created considering the need to resignify laboratory practices in Chemical Education. Qualitative…

Describes two courses in research methodology, required respectively for graduate and undergraduate chemistry students as they begin research projects. The courses include traditional classroom sessions with discussion as well as exercises in writing and speaking, critiquing a journal article and a thesis, and preparing a research proposal.…

Describes a simple and reliable test method used to investigate the corrosion-inhibiting effects of various chelating agents on aluminum pigments in aqueous alkaline media. The experiments that are presented require no complicated or expensive electronic equipment. (DDR)

Reports an experiment which is suitable for an introductory course in analytical chemistry and which illustrates the importance of matrix effects when selecting a method of standardization. Asserts that students learn how a spike recovery is used to validate an analytical method, and obtain practical experience in the difference between performing…

Presents guidelines for supervising an undergraduate student doing research, including a sample contract set up between the student and the supervisor. The contract may state the research topic, objective, procedures, laboratory requirements, costs, schedule, additional projects, and grading criteria. Other suggestions include scheduled meetings…

Students are learning too many facts, and not enough emphasis is being placed on observational skills. An activity is suggested for college students which shows how observations are made and problems formulated from them. (BB)

Describes research techniques in chemistry education that are based on listening to learners. Gives a brief history of think-aloud techniques and works through an example study to show considerations that must be made when doing this kind of research. Issues raised include conceptualization of research studies, preparation for their…

Investigates students' conceptions on reliability and the ways of dealing with different sets of experimental data. Tests students' understanding of how to handle experimental data from three aspects; doing replicates, handling data, and judging the quality of data with respect to spread. Includes 12 references. (YDS)

Describes chemical education research conducted in classrooms using a qualitative methodology. The researcher studies interactions between learners, the teacher leading the instruction, and the material being studied in hopes of better understanding where learning occurs. This is diametrically opposed to standard experimental research, being…

Discusses some uses of questionnaires and surveys in educational research. Describes different kinds of closed and open form questions, offers suggestions for finding questionnaires for use, and describes methods of data analysis. Includes practical suggestions for using questionnaires in the chemistry classroom. (PVD)

Using questioning strategies to involve students in actually doing and analyzing experimental design can offer useful insights to instructors and students alike. Describes an interactive exploration of Alka Seltzer. (CCM)

Presents a laboratory activity using an Ob-scertainer which can be completed by students working as individuals, in pairs, and in groups. Explains the pair approach and focuses on the hypothesis forming process and group roles. (YDS)

Examines background of ideas against which Lewis's last researches were done, reflecting on his conduct of scientific research. Also analyzes Lewis's unique habit of writing research previews and indicates, through his research memoranda to the author, his intensity of research interest and activity during the last years of his life. (JN)

Describes the CIStudio (Chemical Information Studio), a one-credit undergraduate chemistry course at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Focuses on the integration of electronic and print sources of chemical information, especially Internet-accessible reference and database services. Discusses administrative, instructor, and student issues involved.…