Paced Algebra to Calculus Electronically

Document Type

Presentation Abstract

Presentation Date

8-25-2008

Abstract

At Colorado State University, the Department of Mathematics has for decades offered a five-credit pre-calculus program to its students using a mastery system that has proven effective for preparing them for the various calculus courses we offer. More recently we have improved that program, launching an innovative new online pre-calculus program: Paced Algebra to Calculus electronically (PACe). This new program has demonstrated an increase in student success rates (based on grades A, B, and C) from 57% to 66% . That 66% is high compared with other institutions offering pre-calculus, particularly when one considers our students’ opportunities to return and complete their courses in a subsequent semester. Not only have we shown an increase in overall success rates but the percentage of A’s has increased from 24% to 35%, better preparing students for their calculus courses where we have shown a 10% increase in retention in the subsequent Business Calculus Course.

The PACe Curriculum consists of five one-hour semester credit courses, combinations of which are prerequisite to one of three calculus courses at CSU. PACe was designed based on the best-practices research base for online mathematics instruction and is distinct in many regards. First of all, it is designed from assessment up approach. Instruction focuses on both concept and skill using a multiple representations approach—Numerical, Verbal, Graphical, and Symbolic—throughout the program. A full complement of instructional videos accompanies each unit. Assessment is frequent, and formal proctored assessment includes the application of an innovative new approach to using the TI calculator—we are the development site for using Texas Instruments calculator emulator software in an assessment environment.

Additional Details

Monday, 25 August 2008
3:10 p.m. in Math 103
4:00 p.m. Refreshments in Math Lounge 109

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