This project focuses upon the creation of an interactive physical sciences computer lab at Trident's Main Campus, as well as the incorporation of computers into the physics labs for data acquisition and analysis. The use of the interactive physical sciences computer lab, which supports both chemistry and physics, has been integrated with assignments in the chemistry and physics wet labs to reinforce concepts and provide students a more comprehensive understanding of entry-level and college transfer physical sciences. This approach encourages further exploration and practice on the part of the students so they can proceed to more complicated experiments in a safe environment. A computer interfaced with traditional laboratory equipment in the physics labs enables the student to store, manipulate, and retrieve data from any particular experiment. Through the use of innovative and integrated course delivery between the existing wet labs and the proposed interactive lab, students become more involved in sciences, develop a better knowledge base from which to progress to upper level courses, and they become more confident in pursuing a science-related career path. The proposed approach of combining lecture, wet lab, and computer lab in the teaching of physical sciences provides the student with an integrated learning environment.
