Discussing:

• Steven G. Krantz, How to Teach Mathematics, Chapters 4-6

Attending:

• Daniel, Kristin, Tian

Points:

• Students being surprised at learning any new skill in a college math class (after many years of algebra review). Complaints/grievances.
• Students being accustomed to scaling/extra credit to make sure they pass (instead of rigorous standards & hard work). History of K-12, etc.
• Major CUNY changes to placement, remediation, low-level courses, and high-level prerequisite accounting (i.e., eliminate high-level courses in STEM majors?).
• Likely very few M2 courses in future (only for STEM students who do not pass elementary algebra placement). New non-algebra course for non-STEM majors (majority of clientele). For M2, CUNY uniform final exam will not require passing grade (same for English writing test).
• Begs question: Will placement tests still be given? Will uniform final still be given, or eliminated?
• Biology department offers 1-2 credit math supplements linked to sections of non-major biology (e.g., BIO 33). Custom workbook.
• Students pt-in, scattered through other sections.
• Majors are given a 4-day workshop in math before the semester begins (grant-funded; supplies food, mentors, core textbook at end).
• Pre- and post-surveys.
• Referring students with prerequisite deficiencies to consultations in office hours, and/or the math workshop.
• Are all freshmen now in learning communities?
• Can we get a supplement section to prerequisite skills for math courses?