The computer data collection systems procured through this project are being used to introduce Middlebury College undergraduate science students to an important area of contemporary experimental science previously underrepresented in the school's biology, chemistry, geology and physics curricula. These systems permit the teaching of real-time computer techniques, an area of analytical science whose coverage in earlier courses was predominantly descriptive. Students in senior thesis programs and instrumental analysis courses gain experience with state-of-the-art computing equipment similar to that which they will encounter in graduate school or industry. In both the course-related studies and independent senior projects, this equipment enhances students' problem solving skills, and introduces them to contemporary computer techniques. A pilot project conducted by the college with its own funds already has validated the approach, and has enabled the development of materials and methods.
