Sowing the Seed for Laboratory Reform: Acquisition of an FT-NMR

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This project has three specific goals that help the university attract and retain chemistry/ biochemistry majors. The hands-on access to an FT-NMR is making laboratory experiences in organic chemistry more representative of modern laboratory practices and allowing greater innovation in the types of experience students have. Secondly, the FT-NMR can be used in subsequent laboratories in analytical, biochemical, and physical chemistry. Thus approximately 135 students can benefit from this instrument every year. Finally, the FT-NMR provides another tool in the development of a pilot project of the vertically integrated laboratory. A vertically integrated laboratory is defined as having three different class levels working together on a single research project with assigned tasks determined by the student's skill level. Hence sophomore, junior, and senior students work together as a team. This project initially involves 16 students. It is believed that the vertically integrated laboratory creates a community of scholars that enhances critical thinking skills through peer teaching and improves both recruitment and retention of minority students.