KEMS2470 Non-covalent Interactions in Action (6 cr)
Description
Content
Students will get to know non-covalent interactions and their utilizations in preparation of new materials. The course will also focus on the properties and applications of compounds with weak interactions. Therefore students will get familiar with three analyzing methods; X-ray diffractometric methods, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and molecular modelling. Different methods, techniques and applications will be discussed in the point of view of non-covalent interactions. The course consist both theory and practical hands-on examples. In addition, the course contains a project work.
The course consists of five modules. One module is discussed during one day of the visit to Russia. In other words every lecture day will concentrate on one theme. Five modules are following:
1. Non-covalent interactions, synthesis and application
2. X-ray diffractometric techniques
3. NMR spectroscopy
4. Molecular modelling
5. Project work
Completion methods
Completing the course consists of pre-assignments, attending lectures and successfully completing all the exercises, project work and passing the final exam i.e. learning diary, preparing final report of the project work and seminar presentation.
The course consists of lectures (16 h, Russia), preparation and concluding seminars (16 h, Finland), exercises and demonstrations (24 h), pre-assignments (22 h), learning diary (54 h) and project work (30 h). Project work is done in group of 3-4 students. The group consist both Finnish and Russian students. Project work includes planning and executing the project. Results needs to be analyzed and conclusions are made. A written report is made out of the project.
The teaching and learning methods of the course are diverse in order to activate and motivate students. Variable lectures, hand-on experiments with equipment, group and individual work allow participants to get engaged and learn with their own discoveries. In addition, changes in learning environment, such as multiculturalism, can positively impact the participation.
Assessment details
Completing the course consists of pre-assignments, attending lectures and successfully completing all the exercises, project work and passing the final exam i.e. learning diary, preparing final report of the project work and seminar presentation.
Learning outcomes
Additional information
This is an intensive course done at the Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg (Russia) in spring term 2018. The visit to Russia will last for a week. In addition, the course also includes two seminars before and after the visit to Russia.
Course is funded by external sources and JYU. JYU will organize joint transportation, group VISA, accommodations, program, course material, excursions and meals. Funding will cover most of the costs. Students will pay ca. 120 euros for the course, but there is a possibility for a scholarship.
The Finnish attendants of the course will get to meet and know each other in order to facilitate formation of group before travelling to Russia. Students are provided with all the practical information of course and trip early literally and orally. Russia, different culture and language are also discussed. In addition, the idea is that students will think and define their own expected learning outcomes considering both chemistry and other working life skills in a form of pre-assignments and dialog. Expected learning outcomes and developed knowledge will be discussed in Finland after the intensive course. The skills and experiences will be reflected both literally and orally during group seminars.