School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations

Our Never-Ending Pathway to Innovate Calculus 1: Course Coordination and Active Learning to Specifications Grading and Growth Mindset

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-2024

Abstract

In this paper, we detail the implementation of initiatives designed to support instructional strategies aimed at fostering more fair and inclusive learning practices in Precalculus, Calculus 1, and Calculus 2 courses at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. We discuss the progression of course coordination efforts intended to improve students’ learning and mitigate the detrimental effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ mathematics education. Prepandemic early coordination initiatives involved adoption of common textbooks, syllabi, and content coverage across all sections of each course. Subsequent course improvements involved the incorporation of active learning to engage students in collaborative problem-solving sessions with the support of undergraduate Learning Assistants. We have adopted Specifications Grading, an alternative grading system, as part of our most recent reform endeavor to invigorate students’ success in Calculus 1.

Comments

© 2024 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

https://www.tandfonline.com/share/WMPVA46ACAJPRHBYGHDG?target=10.1080/10511970.2024.2352874

Publication Title

PRIMUS

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1080/10511970.2024.2352874

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