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Investigate | 01:22
In laboratory, students explore the chemical properties of matter through experiments and readings.
In laboratory, students explore the chemical properties of matter through experiments and readings.
Studies of electromagnetism are a significant part of physics investigations in the laboratory.
Studies of electromagnetism are a significant part of physics investigations in the laboratory.
As they dissect and observe, students contemplate the structure and function of organisms.
As they dissect and observe, students contemplate the structure and function of organisms.
The underlying principle of laboratory at St. John’s: questioning at every turn.
The underlying principle of laboratory at St. John’s: questioning at every turn.

Investigate

In laboratory sessions, St. John’s students pursue the fundamental questions of physics, biology, and chemistry to understand the process by which science attempts to explain nature. Laboratory consists of the following:

Who?

From 12 to 16 students and one faculty member, called a tutor, conversing around a table, making observations, and conducting experiments.

When?

Two class sessions per week in the first year and three in the third and fourth years of study.

What?

Observational biology, genetics, evolution, and molecular biology; studies of matter and measurement leading to the atomic theory of chemistry; topics in physics including mechanics, optics, heat, electricity, magnetism, and quantum mechanics.

How?

Through careful observation, questioning, reading and conversation, and experimentation.

Why?

To gain knowledge of and reflect upon the scientific enterprise that has shaped the world in which we live.