Experiences of a Learning Assistant in the Advanced Analytical Chemistry Lab

Authors

Daniela A. Galindez Colmenarez, University of Central FloridaFollow

Streaming Media

Files

Course Code

CHM

Course Number

4942

Faculty/Instructor

Dr. Julie Donnelly

Faculty/Instructor Email

julie.donnelly@ucf.edu

About the Author

This Spring, I had the opportunity to be an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for the Advanced Analytical Chemistry Lab (CHM 4130L). I did this as part of my service-learning course, Instructional Experiences in Undergraduate Chemistry (CHM 4942). I was inspired to become a ULA for this lab because, throughout my college years, I have thoroughly enjoyed the subject of analytical chemistry, so I wanted to share my knowledge with other students and help them succeed in this lab.

I would like to thank Dr. Julie Donnelly, my CHM 4942 instructor, for providing me with the tools and strategies needed to successfully fulfill my role as a ULA.

I would also like to thank Dr. Matthew Rex, the CHM 4130L instructor, for allowing me to participate in his lab and giving me great advice every week.

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

This project is a report of my experiences as an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for the Advanced Analytical Chemistry Lab. Although this is considered an advanced-level lab, it usually takes some time for the students to adjust to the way this lab is structured, which may lead them to feel overwhelmed during their first experiments. In addition, students must work in groups, so establishing team dynamics might be a challenge for some of them. Having a ULA in the lab can be beneficial in this setting since it can help students feel more comfortable when asking questions to someone at their level that they would not usually ask an instructor. Throughout the semester, I learned several teaching strategies that helped me approach my students to promote productive teamwork and increase their confidence in the class material and techniques. Being a ULA was a rewarding opportunity that helped me grow as a student and individual. During this time, I learned valuable lessons and skills that will be useful in my future career as a chemist.

Keywords

ULA; service learning; advanced analytical chemistry lab; learning assistant

Recommended Citation

Galindez Colmenarez, Daniela A., "Experiences of a Learning Assistant in the Advanced Analytical Chemistry Lab" (2024). High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2024. 19.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hip-2024spring/19