Narrative Explaining how Required Courses and/or Experiences
Fulfill the Standards for Program

Standard/Guideline

Secondary Minor

Secondary Major

5.0

construct new knowledge for themselves through research, reading and discussion, and reflect in an informed way on the role of science in human affairs;

Chemistry, like all other sciences, is based on the scientific method.  The laboratories in chemistry have been designed to reinforce the scientific method:  experimentation and observations, discovery of patters and trends, formulation and testing of hypotheses, and finally the generalization of the explanations in the form of a theory.

     The general chemistry laboratories, CHEM 122 and CHEM 124, give students the opportunity to gather data (often in a group setting) and

CHEM 281 Laboratory

CHEM 373, organic chemistry laboratory the students synthesize compounds and learn to properly identify them through physical measurements and chemical tests. 

CHEM 381 Laboratory

Research experiences also available

PHY 325 (Methods of Teaching Physical Sciences) or CHEM 325 (Methodology for Secondary Chemistry Teachers) includes units on reporting scientific information using the blackboard, overhead projector, and orally.

CHEM 122 CHEM 124 inquiry labs

CHEM 381 Laboratory

Research experiences also available

PHY 325 (Methods of Teaching Physical Sciences) or CHEM 325 (Methodology for Secondary Chemistry Teachers) includes units on reporting scientific information using the blackboard, overhead projector, and orally.

CHEM 122 CHEM 124 inquiry labs

6.0

understand and promote the maintenance of a safe science classroom as identified by the Council of State Science Supervisors, including the appropriate use and storage of scientific equipment, and the safe storage, use, and disposal of chemicals;

The future teachers observe safety in the EMU laboratories and that they are required to conduct themselves in a safe manner in these laboratories.  This experience is enhanced by the university-wide Health and Safety Compliance Administrator, Kathryn Wilhoff who has the duties of training the faculty and teaching assistants (some whom may become teachers) in health and safety issues. 

     The future teachers also see the lengths that the Chemistry Department goes to in stressing safety issues.  In every laboratory course, the students are required to sign a sheet titled “Chemical Laboratory Safety Rules.”  This sheet certifies that they are aware of the safety rules and know the location and proper use of basic safety equipment (showers, eye wash stations, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, emergency phones, and markings for emergency).

     The one personal safety device that is stressed above all the rest is the use of OSHA approved safety goggles during the laboratory period, and the Chemistry Department does not accept substitutes or excuses for not having them on during the laboratory period (this is cause for removal from the session).  Gloves are made available when handling of hazardous materials is required. Chemical spill kits are in place in the laboratories.

[See additional items under the Major.]

[Continued from the Minor.]

Fume hoods and safety cabinets are in use in the laboratories and provide positive examples of safety.  Other positive safety examples include separate storage of reactive chemicals (like acids and bases), clear labeling of reagent containers, properly labeled waste disposal containers, and broken glass containers.  Students also see the replacement of mercury containing devices with electronic based devices. 

     PHY 325 (Methods of Teaching Physical Science) or CHEM 325 (Methodology for Secondary Chemistry Teachers) has units devoted to laboratory safety, disposal of chemicals, and proper storage and setup of materials.  Students also do a pre-student teaching assignment wherein they are required to observe a class in a science classroom or laboratory.  They interview the teacher and discuss safety issues and precautions with the teacher.