Through this grant, a comprehensive curriculum development project integrates critical thinking and problem-solving skills into existing curriculum. The need for such a project springs from a lack of experiences with abstract concepts that many black students bring to the classroom. The new teaching methodology utilizes a variety of multimedia computer-enhanced learning tools that will unify and focus all science courses into a cohesive unit. Concept bridges are being built as the student's ability to interpret, analyze, and visualize concepts in science is developed as a result of a variety of guided experiences. Developed strategies integrate effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The integration of these skills focuses attention on the development of higher level thinking skills and provides students with a more valuable science education. Moreover, this experience can lead to increased retention, student enrollment, student confidence, and mastery of course content. The new equipment alone cannot make a significant impact on student entry into science careers nor guarantee a rewarding science experience. However, by careful integration of these tools into the existing curriculum, a delicate balance is achieved among the teacher, student, and computer multimedia support system. This balance can produce a student with a far deeper understanding and appreciation of science.
