Students in CHE426 Instrumental Methods are constructing working laser spectrometers for use in a flow injection system designed to monitor chlorophyll levels in algae. Each student team designs and constructs their instrument using Arduino component kits and a red diode laser. They must then demonstrate that their instrument is functioning properly before using it to monitor chlorophyll levels in an algae sample. This applied learning approach helps students understand the role and function of the components found in modern chemical instrumentation and challenges their troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.