Associate Professor Emeritus
Biography
Dr. Hovland's chemistry research focuses on the synthesis of new, novel organosilicon compounds including silole derivatives and silaferoocenophanes. Siloles are cyclic 5-membered ring compounds that contain a silicon atom and two carbon-carbon double bonds and the silaferocenophanes have a silicon atom bridging the two rings of a ferrocene. Several students have participated in these studies. The students who participate in the research are introduced to work with inert atmosphere techniques as the research incorporates extensive use of highly air and moisture sensitive materials.
Dr. Hovland has been actively engaged in a wide range of science education issues. For 13 years, he directed summer workshops for elementary school teachers. These are designed to improve their teaching of science. He has made many presentations at local schools and has worked with students interested in science teaching careers. He has been the president of the county science and engineering fair board for 28 years.
Areas of Research Specialization
- Organosilicon chemistry
- Ferrocene chemistry
Areas of Teaching Specialization
- Inorganic chemistry
- organic chemistry
Education
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B.S. in Chemistry at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, 1968
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Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry at Wayne State University, 1975