This work presents a convenient framework for developing interactive chemical education software to facilitate the integration of macroscopic, microscopic, and symbolic dimensions of chemical concepts--specifically, via the development of software for gel permeation chromatography. The instructional role of the software was evaluated in a study involving 237 undergraduates. The results suggest that the software fostered transition from lower- to higher-order cognitive reasoning. Common misconceptions regarding microscopic phenomena were also detected and addressed. (Contains 4 tables and 1 figure.)