Freshman engineering chemistry is considered difficult by a non-negligible fraction of students and is sometimes reported as a course with lower than desired or expected achievement . The factors leading to this include diminished interest in general science courses, and sub-adequate instruction for large classes . As switching from traditional to completely interactive, student-centered teaching methodology is not easy at most institutions , we developed a novel approach, augmenting traditional course delivery through a relatively small portion of class time on a weekly basis. We also aimed to encourage deeper student involvement and provide tools enabling self-paced learning . Beyond these globally relevant issues, many local students (UAE and broader Arabian/Persian Gulf region) acquire a limited understanding of scientific concepts at all educational stages, partly due to traditional teaching methodology, and partly due to overreliance on rote learning , making the goals and objectives of this work worthy of regional attention .