The students are told that they must only use equipment available within the department and chemicals that are either in the department or which can be ordered on a strictly limited budget. These restriction provide valuable experience in planning research work using limited resources. Initially the projects are based on an article in the literature or on an experiment in a Laboratory Manual and only after successfully repeating the published procedure is the project extended into new areas. A positive attitude to problem solving is encouraged. Successful problem solving is identified through regular review by the class of progress in each project.
Students report finding the project a rewarding and challenging experience.
The laboratory course is now a more satisfying experience for both staff and students. May 1997 Vol. All rights reserved.