Breaking Barriers: Student Success In Community College Mathematics

Mathematics is often seen as a daunting subject for many students, especially those in community colleges. It is a subject that requires logic, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of concepts. However, breaking the barriers of fear and misconception surrounding mathematics is crucial for student success in community colleges. In this article, we will explore the various strategies and initiatives that community colleges are implementing to improve student success in mathematics.

The Importance of Community College Mathematics

Community colleges play a vital role in providing accessible higher education to a diverse range of students. Mathematics courses are a significant part of the curriculum in community colleges, serving as a foundation for various disciplines such as science, technology, engineering, and business. A strong mathematical foundation is not only essential for academic success but also for real-world problem-solving and critical thinking skills that are highly sought after by employers.

The Challenges Faced by Community College Students

Community college students often face unique challenges that can hinder their success in mathematics. Many students come from disadvantaged backgrounds, face financial constraints, have diverse learning styles, or lack academic preparedness. These factors can create barriers and affect students' confidence and motivation in pursuing mathematics-related courses.

Breaking Barriers: Student Success in Community College Mathematics

by Brian Cafarella(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5410 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	222 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

Breaking Barriers through Student Support Programs

Community colleges recognize the importance of providing comprehensive support systems to help students overcome these barriers. Various initiatives have been implemented to foster student success in mathematics, such as tutoring programs, supplemental instruction, and peer mentorship programs. These support programs aim to provide personalized assistance to students, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and resources to excel in their mathematics courses.

Integrating Technology for Enhanced Learning

Technology plays a significant role in breaking barriers to student success in community college mathematics. Online learning platforms, interactive software, and educational apps allow students to practice mathematical concepts at their own pace, access additional resources, and receive immediate feedback. The integration of technology in mathematics instruction promotes engagement, flexibility, and individualized learning, making it accessible to students with diverse learning styles and preferences.

Professional Development for Math Instructors

Community colleges also prioritize the professional development of mathematics instructors. Faculty development programs provide instructors with opportunities to enhance their teaching techniques, incorporate innovative instructional methods, and create a supportive learning environment. By equipping instructors with the necessary tools and strategies, community colleges ensure that students receive quality mathematics education delivered by dedicated and knowledgeable instructors.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Cultivating a growth mindset among community college students is crucial for their success in mathematics. Emphasizing the belief that intelligence and mathematical skills can be developed through effort and practice encourages students to persevere and overcome challenges. Community colleges foster a growth mindset by providing ongoing academic support, emphasizing the importance of effort and persistence, and promoting a positive learning environment that celebrates students' achievements.

Community colleges play a vital role in breaking barriers to student success in mathematics. By implementing student support programs, integrating technology, providing professional development for instructors, and promoting a growth mindset, community colleges create an environment where students can thrive and excel in mathematics. With these initiatives in place, community colleges are transforming the way mathematics is taught and ensuring that students receive the necessary tools and support to succeed in their academic journeys.

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Breaking Barriers: Student Success in Community College Mathematics

by Brian Cafarella(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5410 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	222 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

The fact college students often struggle in mathematics is not new. They exhibit a great deal of anxiety, dislike, and overall disinterest. Quantitative data displaying abysmal student success rates are widely available and shared.

This book explores the complexity surrounding the issue of student difficulties in community college math. Though much quantitative research focuses on the faculty experiences and perspectives regarding methods and practices, the author puts the focus on students’ experiences.

The book presents the results of a study focused on students who struggled in mathematics. Though their experiences varied, they all entered community college with a great deal of disgust and anxiety toward mathematics courses and requirements. These impressions and attitudes create barriers to success. However, all the students eventually succeeded in fulfilling their college-level mathematics requirement.

The author presents these students’ experiences prior to entering community college, what led to both success and failure in their math courses, and the common themes leading to success and failure. Through these student responses, the author assists readers in gaining a better understanding of the community college student who struggles in math and how to break students’ community college math barriers to success.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface

1. Math is a Four-Letter Word

2. The Framework for Developmental and Introductory College-Level Math

3.The Study, Settings, and the Participants

4. Prior Experiences in Math

5. Attempting Math and Community College

6. Navigating the First Developmental Math Course

7. Math Pathways and Completing Developmental Math

8. The End of the Rainbow

9 I Need More Math…Now What?

10. Lessons Learned in the Aftermath

Appendix A: Analyzing the Results and Ensuring Accuracy

Appendix B: Pre-Algebra and to Algebra Course Content

Appendix C: Stand-Alone Quantway 1 and Statway 1 Course Content

Appendix D: Elementary Algebra (all half semester) Content

Appendix E: Intermediate Algebra Content

Appendix F: Lead Questions for Student Participants

Appendix G: Lead Questions for the Lester Community College Faculty

Index

BIOGRAPHY

With 21 years of experience in mathematics education and 17 years as a community college math professor, the author has instructed courses from developmental math through calculus. He has served as Chair of the Developmental Math Department and Assistant Chair of the Mathematics Department at Sinclair College, Dayton, Ohio. He received the Jon and Suanne Roueche Award for Teaching Excellence and the Ohio Magazine Excellence in Education Award.His published research focuses on faculty viewpoints regarding pedagogical practices as well as conceptual research concentrating on developmental math. His article, "Acceleration and Compression in Developmental Math: Faculty Viewpoints," was awarded Article of the Year by the Journal of Developmental Education.