9452475 Poston This proposal is to enhance the laboratory experience for undergraduate students in Biology and Biochemistry, utilizing the BioQUEST Library of computer simulation/modeling and tools including text and hypertext modules. BioQUEST modules are structured within a framework that focuses science education on collaborative, open-ended inquiry. The problem-posing, problem-solving, and peer persuasion approach will permit students in the undergraduate Evolution, Ecology and Biochemistry courses to investigate problems, construct experiments and test potential solutions using simulation models. These courses are currently taught without a laboratory experience or, in the case of Ecology, a limited field/laboratory component. Neither the Biology or Biochemistry department has the computer equipment to integrate the BioQUEST Library into the instructional process. Howard University is the leading minority institution in this country and a high percentage of its students are female. Given the projected needs for much higher minority and female workers in scientific and technical fields, support of this project could have a significant impact in helping to supply the needs of the job market in coming decades, while assisting minority and women students in attaining their careers goals.
