Coherent scientific research integration into all segments of undergraduate learning: A paradigm of national interest

CHED 1836

Kresimir Rupnik, chrupn@lsu.edu, Department of Chemistry, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
The consensus of opinion among many research scientists is that there is an urgent need for a paradigm shift in our efforts to bring the authentic scientific research to the undergraduates. We report here our work on comprehensive and more coherent science-centered part of the undergraduate curriculum. We use the results of our recent research at National and university laboratories to evaluate how effectively molecular-level research is explained to the undergraduate students. We also address some preconditions, expectations and learning goals, including: (1) novel integrative models, (2) instrument construction for new experiments, (3) novel concept-building and problem–solving techniques in an open-ended decision making environment.