Teaching Principal Component Analysis in the Course of Analytical Chemistry: A Q&A Based Heuristic Approach

Abstract

Principal component analysis (PCA) is a powerful tool to process matrix-type data that is more and more common in analytical chemistry, so the necessity to teach PCA becomes more and more evident. Students can easily implement PCA with modern software, but they need deep understanding of the theory to avoid misuses and misinterpretations. However, the theory of PCA is fairly difficult. In order to ensure effective teaching, we have designed a series of questions and answers (Q&As) that begin with a daily life example and end at the core logic of PCA. These Q&As form a heuristic chain for students to follow, so that they can gradually approach and eventually comprehend the theory of PCA. Once students are equipped with such a comprehension, it is easy and natural to further teach PCA properties and applications. For that purpose, we prepared four typical examples as well as in-depth discussions. Positive feedbacks from students confirm the effectiveness of this approach.