Holistic Instruction of Core Science Concepts

This Phase I SBIR project will develop and validate the concept of a Hypermedia instruction resource based on a holistic approach to learning core concepts in science. The approach is "holistic" in that it presents the "language" of science in a broad linguistic context related to the everyday use of terms, in a scientifically correct hierarchy that facilitates individual concept mapping, reinforced by multi-media based virtual experiments. Phase I will develop a prototype Hypermedia learning tool and demonstrate that core science concepts can be effectively communicated to students through this holistic approach. We also hypothesize that presenting the student to the broader meaning of terms, their synonyms, history, and derivation, will improve fundamental language skills. Finally computer-assisted learning provides an inherent capability for real-time performance/activity monitoring, evaluation, and corrective intervention.