Minnesota
State Colleges
MATHEMATICS
DISCIPLINE/DEPARTMENT MEETING
DULUTH
MINNMATYC
MAY 1, 2004
RESULTS OF MEETING:
Of the three “problems” identified - - Transfer issues with College Algebra, Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus - - Transfer issues with “Non-College Algebra” courses, i.e. Liberal Arts Math - - Issues with On-Line Mathematics Courses.
PROBLEM THREE
The “general feeling” seemed to be that the concerns that were expressed one year ago with “On Line Math Courses” no longer exist. Faculty are not being “forced” nor asked to put courses on line without adequate training. Plus the Textbook companies have developed excellent material both as supplements and as platforms to use in the delivery of on-line mathematics courses and additional courses are continuing to be developed.
PROBLEM TWO
There is a definite need to establish acceptable standards for what qualifies as “Non-College Algebra” Math Courses that are offered for “transferable” college credit.
PROBLEM ONE
Most of the discussion took place with the concerns with College Algebra. It appears that very little concern exists with courses identified as Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus which is considered to be College Algebra and Trigonometry.
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The number one discussion with regard to College Algebra seemed to be around the course outline for College Algebra.
- Originally it appeared that we could list the Topics to be covered in a College Algebra Course.
- The discussion continued - - We would need to know not only the topics – but also the level of expectation – the level of “rigor”
- It was reported by participants that there are a number of College Algebra Courses offered across the system - - from 3 credits to 4 credits and some offered that would satisfy Intermediate Algebra rather than College Algebra.
- At least one college includes Trigonometry in College Algebra.
- It appears that College Algebra offered @ a typical
SOLUTIONS:
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Need a new study of Accuplacer
- Need for Standards for College Algebra
- Need for Standards for Intermediate Algebra
- MnSCU to establish Standard Names
- MnSCU to establish a Statewide Math Numbering System – to cross reference between all colleges in the Masco System
- Check with MSCF and request the results of a study that was done about five years ago. In that study, it was determined and spelled out what topics are expected to be included in College Algebra.
- Implement the results of that earlier study and possibly include something similar for both Intermediate Algebra and for “College Credit – Non College Algebra Mathematics”.
ADDITIONAL POINTS OF INTEREST/COMMENTS
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The meeting held in
- The general feeling of the group was that those on the committee should attempt to meet soon after the final exams are completed.
- A meeting could be held after May 13 and/or before the end of June 2004.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dennis Weeks, Facilitator