Virtual Science University - An Engaging, Music-Based Science Education Program
VSU's experiential science lessons are developed using the principles of the Multiple Intelligences Theory. Utilizing music, multimedia, and more allows students of all learning styles to grasp the curriculum and have fun doing it.
Founder Dr. Arnulfo Tarin (A.T.) Carrasco saw the need to enhance Science education among young people. The goal: to create a program that grabs and holds the attention of today's visually engaged generation. That's how Virtual Science University's online/video program was born.
Meet "Professor Paul"...
Professor Paul O. Briones started his teaching career in 1978 after receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Life Science from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB) in 1976. In his 30 teaching years, Professor Paul has taught Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Pre-AP Physics, Pre-AP Chemistry, Integrated Physics and Chemistry, TAKS Prep, Science, and ESL Science at the College, High school, and Middle School levels in Texas. While pursuing his Masters Degree at UTPB (obtained in 1994, with a minor in Chemistry), his advisor inspired him to begin using the Multiple Intelligence Theory as the basis of his teaching. Since that time, he has utilized original songs, audio, visual and hands-on teaching methods to engage students.
Professor Paul served as a member of the 2006 Policy Research Initiatives in Science Education at Texas A&M, a program funded by the National Science Foundation. He has served as a Committee Member of the Texas Education Agency-Analyzed Field Test Items for the TAKS Test committee and has been a presenter at the Conference for the Advancement of Science Teachers (CAST), Texas Association of Bilingual Educators Conference, West Texas Educators Conference, and the National Association of Biology Teachers Convention. In addition, he has been named to Who's Who Among America's Teachers, along with receiving multiple songwriting awards. Professor Paul continues to stay abreast of advances in science education, including as a contributor with the Carrasco Media Group in developing Virtual Science University's unique science program.
Meet Dr. Carrasco…
Dr. Carrasco knows the value of an education that has a strong foundation in science. He earned an Associates of Science (1980) from Midland College, and a Bachelor's Degree in Zoology with a minor in Chemistry from Texas Tech University. In 1987, he earned his Medical Degree from Texas Tech University School of Medicine, followed by the completion of his Anesthesiology residency training with sub-specialization in Pain Management at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Additional training in Pain Management was completed in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Carrasco founded the Carrasco Pain Institute and Spa, a multidisciplinary institute where he treats individuals who suffer mild to severe pain. In 2008, he created the Carrasco Media Group, through which he hosts a television medical program- the Dr. Carrasco Show, and developed Virtual Science University's learning program.
Dr. Carrasco is a strong proponent, promoting educational opportunities for children. In 1995, he established the A.T. Carrasco Educational Foundation, through which he funds scholarships to High School seniors and students from Midland College pursuing 4-year degrees. In 2000, he was elected to the Board of Midland College. Proceeds from VSU will be used to award more scholarships across Texas.
Grants/Funding
Our program qualifies for many grant or funding programs, such as Technology or Virtual learning grants. We encourage discussions on grant options to fund this program in your school.