An experimental course in organic chemistry utilized computer-assisted instructional (CAI) techniques. The CAI lessons provided tutorial drill and practice and simulated experiments and reactions. The Conversational Language for Instruction and Computing was used, along with a CDC 6400-6600 system; students scheduled and completed the lessons at their own individual paces. Since CAI accomplished the routine instruction, weekly lectures were reduced from three to two, but more time was devoted to essential theoretical concepts and student problems. Students did spend greater amounts of time on the lessons, but achievement was greater, especially for students in the lower and middle ability ranges. Students' attitudes were positive, and they developed self-reliance and independence which helped improve their lab performances. Experience with the course convinced its authors that students can take a more active part in organic chemistry instruction. In addition, it was concluded that both the traditional and the experimental approaches placed great time demands upon students and that further modularization was not necessary, but that increased attention should be given to the synthesizing of individual units into interdependent constructs. (Author/LB)