Course, Curriculum, and Laboratory Improvement Grant
Facilitating the Comprehension of Biological Principles through the Creation of Modules Utilizing Interactive Computer Assisted Instruction and Hands-on Investigative Exercises

Preliminary research conducted with students enrolled in core courses resulted in the formulation of a structure for these modules.
Many students, particularly those with poor educational backgrounds, learning skills or language difficulties, can increase comprehension through repeated self-paced exposure to difficult concepts. The inclusion of computer-enhanced instruction of conceptually difficult scientific principles enriches the visual, auditory, and cooperative aspects of the learning experience (Bonwell and Eison, 1991).
At Montgomery College, it has been shown that introductory course retention has increased from approximately 50% to over 80% in two years following implementation of supplemental computer modules available through the Math-Science Learning Center.