A systems based approach to the teaching of instrumental chemical analysis

Hull, R; Arotsky, J

Abstract

Instruments are taking an increasingly important role in chemistry and other sciences.
Modern instruments are designed to optimise performance. As a consequence the operation
of them is highly automated and there is little indication of how they are working.
In addition the rapid developments in modern technology mean that design of instruments are
constantly changing and new instruments are continuously evolving. This places a
considerable burden on university science departments. The cost of instruments is enormous
and this is amplified by the cost of replacing instruments in order to keep them up to date.
The increase in instrumentation has altered the skill requirements of industry. In the past
there was an emphasis on wet chemistry and the use of quantitative apparatus. Industry now
requires individuals that are competent with highly automated equipment and the production
of very large numbers of results in short time spans.
Conversely and understanding of how an instrument works is necessary in order to optimise
operation and to be aware of the quality of results that are produced.
Chemistry departments generally have large numbers of obsolete but still working
instruments. These instruments operate on the same basic principles as modern instruments.
However the technique that they use to process the results is cumbersome and slow.
Finally there is an hitherto unsatisfied demand to provide graduates with appropriate skills in
information technology. This demand has appeared against a background where there is
pressure to maximise the use of resources.

Citation

Hull, R., & Arotsky, J. A systems based approach to the teaching of instrumental chemical analysis

• Report Type: Project Report
• Deposit Date: Jun 19, 2009
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 19, 2009
• Additional Information: Funders : Teaching and Learning Quality Improvement Scheme