Design-Based Learning Framework for Introducing Factorial Experimental Design and Lab-on-a-Chip Separations in an Instrumental Chemistry Laboratory

Abstract

Lab-on-a-chip devices are a critical and emerging chemical technology. New pedagogical tactics that effectively capture both analytical chemistry concepts along with the design elements unique to these devices are necessary for effective integration in the undergraduate chemistry curriculum. This article develops a design-based learning laboratory exercise to concurrently introduce analytical miniaturization, chemical separations, and formal factorial design of experiment methods in an Introduction to Instrumental Analysis course. A new student-accessible lab-on-a-chip fabrication platform using a benchtop laser cutter allows for rapid, iterative, and safe production of student-designed microchip capillary electrophoresis devices in minutes. Student teams used a full factorial experimental design approach to efficiently screen three experimental variables of their choice when evaluating the separation speed of their own lab-on-a-chip devices. This laboratory exercise has been successfully implemented on three occasions over the past several years at Colorado College. Both reflective and performance-based assessment methods suggest this exercise is an effective pedagogical approach for realizing the intended learning outcomes.