The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a
challenge for maintaining an
engaging learning environment while using remote laboratory formats.
In this work, we describe a Student Choice Project (SCP) in an undergraduate
instrumental analysis course that was adapted for remote learning
without sacrificing research-based learning goals. We discuss the
implementation and assessment of this SCP, selected student results,
and student feedback. Students were provided handheld carbon dioxide
monitors and charged with designing and implementing an investigation
centered on COVID-19 airborne transmission. The real-time monitors
provided experience with a new analytical tool that demanded considerations
and analysis not common to other methods discussed in the course.
Students were motivated by the ability to design their own projects
and by the real-world implications of their findings. They performed
well for all assessments, reported a positive experience, and recommended
these monitors be added to the typical repertoire of instrumentation
for the course.
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