A Problem Solving Approach to Pre-Calculus with Active Learning

At CSUDH, many students are not getting through key Mathematics courses that are required for most STEM majors. Pass rates in MAT 153 (Pre-Calculus) are low (79.2% of all students, calendar years 2009-2013). In addition, only 74.3% of CSUDH freshmen STEM majors persist into their second year. Redesigning this critical gateway course will support the advancement and retention of both freshmen and non-freshmen STEM students. To address these needs, faculty began to redesign the MAT153 (Pre-Calculus) course in Fall 2014 using classroom strategies including active learning, standards based grading, problem solving, frequent assessment and digital tools and resources for students.