Transforming Traditional Sophomore Quant into a Course on Modern Analytical Science

Abstract

We are involved in a curriculum development project at San Jose State University directed at transforming traditional sophomore quantitative analysis into a course on modern analytical science. This project is supported by an NSF Curriculum Development Grant. The new sophomore course emulates the working environment of a modern commercial laboratory where students must deal directly with contemporary analytical problems and technology. We have developed several laboratory investigations that reflect a commitment to addressing organic, biological, and environmental studies, in place of much of the traditional emphasis on simple inorganic systems. The types of investigations include separations science (mixture analysis), multielement and trace analysis, and combined physical and chemical characterization. Laboratory studies are conducted, as far as possible, with state-of-the-art equipment and methodology. Pervading all of this is a laboratory structure based on Good Laboratory Practice principles, where s...