Initial Design and Development of an Integrated Laboratory Network: A New Approach for the Use of Instrumentation in the Undergraduate Curriculum

Abstract

This paper describes both the conceptual framework and initial development of Western Washington University's Integrated Laboratory Network (ILN). The ILN brings together scientific instrumentation, Internet-based classroom management systems (CMS), and other online resources to provide a new working model for the use and introduction of instrumentation within the undergraduate curriculum. Full implementation of the ILN will allow greater access to instruments and instrumental data and will provide a wide variety of novel teaching and learning opportunities. Examples of how the ILN has been implemented and used in a number of courses, including a high school chemistry course, are described.