Inquiry-Based Laboratories Using Paper Microfluidic Devices

The Making Introductory Courses Real while Online (MICRO) laboratory project was developed to meet the need for hands-on experiments, focused on topics in analytical chemistry, to be delivered safely remotely or in a socially distanced in-person lab. Unlike more traditional lab experiments, MICRO la...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of chemical education 2021-06, Vol.98 (6), p.1946-1953
Main Authors: Roller, Rachel M, Sumantakul, Saichon, Tran, Michelle, Van Wyk, Andrea, Zinna, Jessica, Donelson, Destiny A, Finnegan, Sarah G, Foley, Gregory, Frechette, Olivia R, Gaetgens, Jessica, Jiang, Jiani, Rinaolo, Katheryn C, Cole, Renée S, Lieberman, Marya, Remcho, Vincent T, Frederick, Kimberley A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analytical chemistry
Chemistry
Educational materials
Experiments
Hands on Science
Human influences
Inquiry
Inquiry method
Instructional materials
Introductory Courses
Laboratories
Laboratory Experiments
Laboratory Safety
Laboratory tests
Microfluidic devices
Online Courses
Organic Chemistry
Resource Materials
Science Experiments
Science Instruction
Science Laboratories
Teaching aids & devices
Teaching Methods
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Summary:The Making Introductory Courses Real while Online (MICRO) laboratory project was developed to meet the need for hands-on experiments, focused on topics in analytical chemistry, to be delivered safely remotely or in a socially distanced in-person lab. Unlike more traditional lab experiments, MICRO laboratories use only microgram or nanogram amounts of chemicals; paper microfluidic technology is used to store and mix reactants. Instructional materials use an inquiry-based approach and are situated in a context that highlights the human impacts of the scientific analysis. To support broader-scale implementation of the experiments and promote a shift to more inquiry-based laboratory instruction, an array of supports were developed, including adaptable instructional materials, instructional videos for lab preparation, resource guides, and an introductory workshop. A cohort of nine institutions implemented MICRO laboratories both remotely and in person during Fall 2020. Students were able to successfully complete the experiments, and the inquiry nature of the laboratories led to an increased comfort with the trial-and-error nature of authentic scientific practice. Additionally, most faculty participants indicated a commitment to an increased degree of inquiry in their laboratory pedagogy.
ISSN:0021-9584
1938-1328
DOI:10.1021/acs.jchemed.1c00214