The human HPLC column: "minds-on" neuroscience for the next generation

Science education researchers have suggested that neuroscientists can play an important role in science education programs for adolescents by creating "minds-on" teaching and learning modules for scientists and teachers to use in classrooms. Effective educational partnerships between teachers and visiting scientists not only ignite student interest but also provide opportunities for scientist and teacher professional development. The aim of the present teaching module was threefold: (1) to introduce adolescents to the acute neurochemical effects of psychomotor stimulant drugs and their analysis using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), (2) to spur maturation of analytical reasoning skills among adolescents, and (3) to spark enthusiasm for science education.