AN ELECTRON MICROPROBE IN THE CLASSROOM: A REMOTE-ACCESS SYSTEM FOR EDUCATION

In 2003, the University of Minnesota's Electron Microprobe Laboratory implemented a new system for remote research and education via the Internet. The remote-access system allows real-time access to our microprobe using only standard web browsers. Researchers at any location can oversee and contribute to their analyses. Our remote-access capabilities also provide our laboratory with unique opportunities for interactive education. The microprobe is operated by lab personnel while students can view four live video streams: (1) a view into the lab, (2) the reflected-light microscope, (3) the electron or cathodoluminescence image, and (4) the workstation monitor (including EDS and WDS spectra, maps, etc.). Audio interaction occurs via telephone or the Internet. Students can, for instance, view electron images of a thin section, ask for certain grains to be analyzed, and see the resulting X-ray spectra. The use of passive video streams, rather than active remote control, has several advantages. One of these is less focus on instrument operation and learning the software. Instead, students can concentrate on the relevant geological principles. A remote-access session, though, is more than just a demonstration. Data are collected from the students' own samples, and students are involved in the decisions made during electron probe microanalysis. Another advantage is convenience as there is no special software to purchase or install. Our system takes advantage of the fact that many classrooms are now equipped with Internet connections and a projection system. A lecturer can project the video streams on a screen so that an entire class can observe the analyses. Lab rooms also often have Internet-capable computers, so a small group of students can use our system. This is the first remote-access system for an electron microprobe that is routinely used for undergraduate teaching. We have also advised other laboratories, which have set up similar systems modeled on our own.