Research and Service Learning in a Garden of Chemistry

Course based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) enable students to connect theoretical coursework to the real-world application of scientific research, broadly increasing the accessibility of research to students. Similarly, service-learning courses connect undergraduate students to their surrounding communities by anchoring a component of the course in community service and providing an opportunity for students to recognize its potential impact on humanity. Herein, we describe the implementation of a combined CURE and a service learning course. Students designed chemical investigations of purslane, a medicinal and edible plant, while simultaneously volunteering at a campus community garden. Student-led investigations have included analyses of extraction efficiencies, the effect of preparation on the antioxidant potential, and the antimicrobial activity of purslane extracts, among others. Pre- and post-survey data suggest that CUREs may be effectively achieved in a lab course with a significant service learning component. This course can be easily adapted to meet the needs and interests of other chemistry courses.