Optical Spectroscopy in the Undergraduate Laboratory Curriculum

Georgia Tech Research Corporation, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Abstract

Biological Sciences (61) Experiments that utilize optical spectroscopic methods adapted from the literature are being introduced in a coordinated fashion into four teaching laboratories as a means of increasing student understanding of interactions of light and matter. Students measure the absorbance and fluorescence of metalloporphyrins in a freshman-level inorganic chemistry laboratory. They characterize protein-DNA interactions, DNA-ligand thermodynamics and kinetics, and protein unfolding equilibrium and kinetics in upper-level biochemistry and chemistry laboratories using absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy. In one laboratory course, students develop and test their own hypothesis for a well-defined biophysical problem. Web-based teaching tools are being developed and implemented to enhance and monitor student learning. Instrumentation to facilitate these activities include a UV-visible spectrophotometer, two scanning fluorometers (with computers/printers), and a rapid-mixing accessory for stopped-flow kinetics for dedicated use in the undergraduate teaching laboratories. This project is being assessed by an advisory board of chemistry and biology faculty and a teaching and learning specialist.