Laboratory Research Projects in Undergraduate Environmental and Analytical Chemistry

Inquiry- and context-based learning (IBL and CBL, respectively) can lead to improved student outcomes, including increased motivation and interest, the development of critical thinking skills, and improved assessment results. This study outlines the application of IBL research projects in third-year university Environmental Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry subjects that also incorporate elements of CBL. Informal student surveys were administered to determine student perceptions of the projects. Students reported that the projects improved their critical thinking, communication, and experimental design skills. They also appreciated being able to investigate a single topic in depth and that the projects reflected the work of real scientists. Students also commented that subject administration, the clarity of marking schemes, and access to resources needed improvement. Improved guidance was also a common theme.