Pollutant detection and remediation - context and problem-based learning

Additional information

This case-study focuses on the development of remediation strategies for a polluted water pond. The student will act as scientific consultants reporting to the local authorities, and are charged with the task of investigating opportunities for cleaning up the spill at the site. The resource is a laboratory-based case study involving five core laboratory sessions, and ancillary preparatory and feedback sessions. Opportunities to extend the resource if more time is available or to curtail it to a smaller number of sessions are described in the accompanying tutor guide. In completing the resource, students will: (i) Use UV/visible spectroscopy to quantify the amount of malachite green present; (ii) Study the effect of physical adsorption as a remediation strategy; (iii) Study the effect of photocatalysis as a remediation strategy; (iv) Plan experimental procedures; (v) Compile a professional report; (vi) Present their findings to peers and tutors; (vii) Manage the project using a wiki.