Needs Assessment:
I would like to improve the passing rates and learning of students in MAT0024C Beginning Algebra on Osceola campus and college wide by implementing the MAT0024C active study notes with WebCT6 component in MAT0024C courses. Based on data collected on passing rates in MAT0024C Beginning Algebra comparing the number of students who pass the course and the number of student who enroll in the course college wide, there is a major problem with students learning the material in MAT0024C.
Learning Outcome:
I would like to know if the active study notes that I created in LO 1 will improve the passing rates and learning in MAT0024C Beginning Algebra. I will implement the MAT0024C Beginning Algebra active study notes with WebCT6 component into various sections of MAT0024C Beginning Algebra. This Learning Outcome will involve an Action Research Project (ARP) to determine if the active study notes with WebCT6 component are beneficial to student learning and improvement as compared to traditional courses. I will be examining three areas in my action research project to determine if the active study notes are effective:
1) Compare factoring questions on the MAT0024C State Exam (#19-#25) with the active study notes and traditional courses
2) Compare the retention of courses using the active study notes and the retention of traditional courses
3) Assess the course satisfaction through a survey of courses with the active study notes to the course satisfaction of traditional courses
Essential Competencies addressed:
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning- Action Research Project on the results from implementing the active study notes with the WebCT6 component into MAT0024C Beginning Algebra courses and comparing the results to traditional MAT0024C Beginning Algebra courses on Osceola Campus and college wide
Professional Commitment- the active study notes with the WebCT6 component will be used in MAT0024C Beginning Algebra courses participating in my Action Research Project. The active notes will be available for use by all instructors of MAT0024C Beginning Algebra college wide and can be used as a manual for new instructors. I will also present the active notes and research project at various workshops.
Conditions:
Time Line:
Fall 2006/Spring 2007/Summer 2007: I will create and refine the active study notes with WebCT6 component.
Fall 2007: I will incorporate the study notes into my Beginning Algebra course and collect data and make any changes.
Fall 2007: Fellow faculty members will implement the active study notes with WebCT6 component into MAT0024C Beginning Algebra courses. I will then collect data on success rates, retention, and course satisfaction and compare to Osceola campus and college wide data.
Summer 2008: I will create the results report and Action Research paper.
Fall 2008: I will share the results will the deans and mathematics faculty. I will also prepare a presentation for various workshops within Valencia College and conferences outside of Valencia College.
Products of Learning Outcome:
Action Research Project results