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The Chemical Educator
ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)
Abstract Volume 29
(2024) pp 51-55
Construction of an AM Radio in a Chemistry Lab: An Immersive Student Learning Experience
Balwant Chohan, *,† Robert Crable, ‡ Rod Kreuter,‡ and Dan G. Sykes‡
†School of Arts & Sciences, Felician University, Lodi, NJ 07644, chohanb@felician.edu; ‡Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
Received June 27, 2023. Accepted August 14, 2023.
Published: 5 February 2024
Abstract. Despite the critical role electronics plays in instrument design and data collection and processing, the teaching of electronics in analytical chemistry has diminished. More commonly, current instructional methods focus on a systems approach to instrumentation that stresses design layout using preconfigured modular electronic components. This article describes the construction of a low-cost AM radio that places a greater emphasis on the design and construction of electronic circuits. The project uses active learning strategies so that students must problem-solve, think creatively, and learn to work in a team environment as they design electronic circuits to achieve the project goal. The activity serves as a platform for more sophisticated student DIY semester-long projects such as Raman spectrometers, NMR probes, and cyclic voltammeters among many other instruments.
Key Words: Laboratories and Demonstrations; analytical chemistry; instrumental analysis, middle school science; high school science; hands-on learning; project/inquiry based experiment
(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: chohanb@felician.edu)
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