This paper proposes a learning environment in which manual operations of school chemistry laboratory experiments, such as titration and aliquoting, are automated by means of computer controlled devices. The educational study focuses on characteristics of learning in the automated laboratory environment. Pilot teaching indicated that using automation devices significantly reduces the performance time of titration laboratory work. The students also noted that automated titration experiments are more simple and accurate. Therefore, automation of manual operations in laboratory practice has been found to provide a very positive learning environment.

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Abstract-This paper presents a study of automation in the high school chemical inquiry based laboratory. Simple computer-controlled devices for automation of basic manual operations were constructed and applied in students' laboratory experiments together with the Fourier-Systems Inc. data collection and management systems. We examined characteristics of learning in the new automated laboratory environment and discussed educational outcomes.

This paper presents a study of automation in the high school chemical Inquiry based laboratory. Simple computercontrolled devices for automation of basic manual operations were constructed and integrated with the data collection and management systems of the Fourier-Systems Inc. in students' lab sessions. We examined characteristics of learning in the new automated laboratory environment, evaluated educational outcomes and students' attitudes.

His research interests are in engineering education with emphasis on experiential learning in technological environments, educational robotics, mathematics education in engineering and cultural context. Leonid Revzin, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology Leonid L. Revzin received the M.Sc. degree in Chemistry from the Novosibirsk State University (1975), Russia. He is a certified teacher of chemistry in Israel. Mr. Revzin is a graduate student at the Department of Education in Technology & Science, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. His research interests include developing and evaluating learning environments and curricula that integrate automation systems in the high school chemistry laboratory.