OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES

• Design and conduct experiments, using a broad variety of experimental techniques, and interpret the data obtained to draw conclusions about whether the results do or do not support a hypothesis being tested and whether the experimental design was appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with other students and with faculty, understanding that most scientific knowledge/conclusions draw(s) on multiple sources of data and multiple experimental approaches.
• Learn “best approaches” for conducting experiments including laboratory safety, data replication and quality control, record keeping, and other aspects of “responsible conduct of research”.
• Gain familiarity with an area of science such that the students can present their work to a professional audience and also discuss their work with a general audience.
• Develop problem solving skills and analytical thinking skills.