  Acquiring the mathematical, conceptual, and problem-solving skills required
in university-level physics courses is hard work, and the average student often
lacks the knowledge and study skills they need to succeed in the introductory
courses. Here we propose a new pedagogical model and a straight-forwardly
reproducible set of internet-based testing tools. Our work to address some of
the most important student deficiencies is based on three fundamental
principles: balancing skill level and challenge, providing clear goals and
feedback at every stage, and allowing repetition without penalty. Our tools
include an Automated Mathematics Evaluation System (AMES), a Computerized
Homework Assignment Grading System (CHAGS), and a set of after-homework quizzes
and mini-practice exams (QUizzes Intended to Consolidate Knowledge, or QUICK).
We describe how these tools are incorporated into the course, and present some
preliminary results on their effectiveness.
