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Exploring Hybrid Instruction in Science: Using LMS for Contextual, Interdisciplinary Active Learning Enrichment

Learning Management Systems are instructional platforms that offer opportunities to address the development of core competencies across disciplines. The emergence of instructional models which place greater emphasis on core skill development in science education help to build interdisciplinary communities through curricular connectivity and complementary contextual learning applications. Herein we report on an interconnected core concept and skills approach combining the blended structured use of the Learning Management System (LMS) with a core curricular context for biology and chemistry content. This hybrid was applied to the entry chemistry course for science majors. The threefold interconnected biology-chemistry core concept umbrella areas are Chemical Identity/Matter Classification, the Mole Concept, and Energy. A web-facilitated pedagogy was utilized for the complementary entry-level biological science course. The results provide preliminary evidence of the potential of this instructional approach as a means to both build interdisciplinary community in STEM education and innovate instruction for improved learning outcomes.