Interdisciplinary study with computer-based multimedia in the classroom is reviewed. The multimedia revolution involves multiple technologies and multiple modes of sensation, but the computer is at the heart of this revolution. Despite the many challenges, interest is strong for multimedia courseware. The predicted market is enormous, and nowhere more so than in science education. Interactive multimedia is ideal for science instruction. A case study of multimedia use in middle school earth and life science classes by a teacher with no previous computer experience illustrates how conventional instruction can be enhanced. An overall increase in visual literacy must accompany scientific literacy. The requirements for visual literacy are being explored by a number of researchers, and guidelines are being formulated for the design and evaluation of multimedia products. The Santa Fe Christian School (New Mexico) is an example of building visual and scientific literacy in the planned use of multimedia to help students assess their abilities to work in various styles. (Contains 17 references.) (SLD)