The Student-Oriented project is improving introductory science coerces by 1) developing new microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) tools useful in a number of disciplines, 2) developing, supporting, disseminating, and evaluating interactive introductory physics materials of the type developed in the Tools for Scientific Thinking project at Tufts University and in the Workshop Physics program at Dickinson College. The work is being extended to the learning environments found at large universities. The flexibility of these materials allows colleges and universities to incrementally introduce changes in the way they teach. The project is extensively testing both individual learning modules and total curricula by working with physicists from Dickinson College, Tufts University, University of Oregon, Boise State University in Idaho, Muskingum College, Ohio State, Rutgers University, the University of Washington, and others. Several criteria which will be considered in the evaluation of the materials include student attitudes toward science, level of scientific literacy, and conceptual learning gains. Materials are being produced that work well with underprepared and science-anxious students and with non-science as well as science majors.
