These 2-4-week modules start with relevant real-world questions and develop the chemistry needed to answer them. In the process, students model how chemistry is actually done and discover connections between chemistry and other sciences, technology, and society. In order to develop critical thinking skills as well as cover chemical content, modules feature student-centered active and collaborative classroom activities and inquiry-based laboratory and media projects, rather than relying primarily on traditional lectures and verification laboratories. This approach is based on research showing that students learn best when they build on past experience, relate what they are learning to things that are relevant to them, have direct "hands-on" experience, construct their own knowledge in collaboration with other students and faculty, and communicate their results effectively.