Research Interests

Advisor

Chemical Education Research Interests

Development of Demonstration Modules: The preparation of various first row transition metal complexes in aqueous solution, recording their UV-Vis spectra and determining their 10 Dq values and correlating this information with the nature of the metal ions, the ligands and the geometry of the complex ion of illustrate the spectrochemical series. The study of the interactions between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and various metal ions such as copper (II), chromium (III, VI), cobalt (II), nickel (II) and aluminum to show correlations between coordination number of the metal ion, basicity of the reacting medium and type of polymer made The correlation of standard reduction potential values to the methods used to extract metals from their ores using well-chosen examples.

Development of Videos: Writing and producing videos about various lab techniques and/or the use of laboratory instruments.

Application of Spreadsheet/Database Computer Programs to Chemistry: Presently we are developing procedures for working up data in various physical chemistry experiments using Lotus.

Dr. Michael F. Z. Page

Chemical Education:

As technology and multimedia evolve, I am interested in developing chemistry-based curricula that reflect these modern advances and offers students alternative avenues of scientific understanding, exploration, and comprehension. Many opportunities are available to students who are interested in developing multimedia lessons, demonstrations, and tutorials using state of the art video, sound, and presentation equipment.

For students who are interested in teaching chemistry and interacting with local high schools, junior highs, and elementary schools, I have several collaborators who are interested in expanding and developing science clubs that review scientific principles and offer interesting lab demonstrations. Additionally, I am also interested in modifying some classic university laboratory lessons to become more inquiry-based, cost-effective, and ecologically conscience.

Polymer Chemistry:

As an organic chemist by training, I have collaborated with researchers at UCLA and Caltech to develop biologically relevant polymers that contain peptide residues to image the progression of cancerous tumors. There are opportunities for students to gain experience in polymer chemistry if these aims seem interesting.

Students interested in any of these aims should feel free to come and speak with me!