Midlands Technical College Science Department

The laboratory experience is designed to supplement and complement material covered in lecture, and is an integral part of the course. Material may be presented in greater detail in lab than in lecture. The laboratory experience may include dissections, films, demonstrations, experiments, workbook exercises, research and writing assignments. The laboratory instructors will give a sufficient amount of information and guidance to allow students to complete each lab, but success in lab primarily involves the individual effort of each student. To maximize learning and to minimize the risk of accidents or injury, the following policies and rules will be observed in science labs:

1. Laboratory exercises must be completed during the assigned lab period unless otherwise designated by your instructor.

2. Students should read laboratory exercises before coming to class.

3. Do not disturb any equipment or demonstrations that have been set up, until your instructor has told you how to proceed with the assignment.

4. Apply yourself in lab. The exercises are designed to reinforce and expand upon material presented in the lecture.

5. Follow directions carefully.

6. Do not hesitate to ask your lab instructor for clarification of any instructions you do not understand. However, do not expect your lab instructor to simply give you answers to information you should be obtaining through the completion of the various lab exercises.

7. Bring all necessary materials to lab, including your text.

8. Do not bring any food or drinks into any science lab.

9. Know where the eyewash station and shower are located in each lab. Report injuries immediately to your lab instructor.

10. Lab coats and protective eyewear are required in certain labs including microbiology and chemistry.

11. At the end of each lab, leave your work space in good order by discarding waste materials, cleaning and disinfecting your lab table, returning all materials used to their proper place, and sliding your chair back under the table.

12. No children or visitors are allowed in lab or lecture.

13. Protective eyewear must be worn for all dissections.