Here is a list of my 'top 10' standard opperating procedures in the science classroom:
1. Come prepared to class by having read through the procedure for that lab (will be provided to you ahead of time).
2. There are no inappropriate questions: if you do not understand the procedure ask your lab partner(s)to stop and clarify and/or seek my help (it's my job.
3. Understand the properties and common characteristics of the chemicals you will be working with. Use the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to read into the properties of the chemicals that you will be handling in your lab.
4. Never assume that you know all the properties of an element or chemicals you are handling: do not taste, touch or smell any chemical just because you think it's safe.
5. Be aware of who and what is around you. Accidents in a lab can be very dangerous.
6. Safety equipment is located in the classroom for your safety! Know where it is and how to use it.
7. Come dressed appropriately on lab days: long hair tied back and no open-toed shoes. No compromises.(if you come in wearing sandals, you will be forced to wear the complimentary pair of Dutch wooden clogs for the rest of the day)
8. Goggles are not just for 'suckas.'If you like the luxury of sight, get used to wearing them.
9. Although science is fun, lab is not open playtime. Follow the appropriate procedure and do not start your own 'side projects' without consulting with a teacher.
10. Enjoy what you learn, that's the purpose after all....
Here are a few for educators to consider:
1. Always try out the experiment that you are asking students to perform, before letting them loose on it. Think of possible mistakes they might make (unintentional or deliberate) with the set of equipment that they have at their disposal.
2. Document safety rules that you and the students will follow. Make sure they are understood and accepted by all students.
3. Model safe behavior. Wear goggles during experiments, don't overlook infractions or safety rules and be cosistent with expectations.
-V
As and educator this list is a great start, would students understand your expectations or Standard Operating Procedures? Rule number 1 is so important and yet one that is rarely followed. Looking forward to the rest of your SOP's.
ReplyDeleteWondering if you had come up with the rest of your Lab SOP's?
ReplyDeleteHi Steve, yes I've been working on these on a separate sheet. They are in the constant draft phase, as much of this blog seems to be at the moment. Thank you for your comments however, I've considered them and some changes in the wording of these SOP's.
ReplyDelete