Implementation of Traditional and Real-World Cooperative Learning Techniques in Quantitative Analysis Including Near Infrared Spectroscopy for Analysis of Live Fish

Abstract

It is important for a modern quantitative analysis laboratory course to contain gravimetric and volumetric analysis exercises implemented with standard unknowns. By analyzing unknowns, students learn crucial laboratory skills. It is also advantageous to introduce real-world samples and cooperative learning structure into the lab course. A one-semester sophomore course at Idaho State University is divided into two parts: students individually perform traditional unknown analyses, and as groups, they study an aquatic ecosystem simulated by a trout aquarium. Ecosystem analyses include the important chemical components of the nitrogen cycle, dissolved oxygen, and alkalinity. In addition to examining the aquatic system, trout are removed temporarily from the aquarium for analysis of lipid and moisture content using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. For the ecosystem investigation, students also determine costs of analyses and conduct quality-control studies. At the completion of the course, students are well versed in classical methods of analysis as well as educated on the relevance of modern technology, including up-to-date instrumentation and sophisticated multivariate calibration and prediction procedures. Course assessment results are summarized in the paper.

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