Improving mathematical learning and college outcomes for developmental algebra students
This research project explores different ways to address student learning and progress through developmental algebra. Approaches to this research area include developing game-based and collaborative learning curricula for intermediate algebra, developing instruments to measure conceptual understanding in algebra, developing theories about how students learn and progress through fundamental algebra concepts as they learn algebra in developmental classes in college, and developing a concepts-based developmental algebra curriculum which accelerates students through elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, and precalculus by consolidating common concepts across contexts.
Primary Investigators: Claire Wladis; Kathleen Offenholley; Jay Verkuillen
Research associates: Dale Dawes, Elisabeth Jaffe, Jae Ki Lee, Susan Licwinki, Audrey Nasar
Funding that has supported this research ($2,455,184 total):
- National Science Foundation (NSF) EHR Core Grant: Developing and Validating an Elementary Algebra Concept Inventory, 2019-2024. ($1,500,000)
- National Science Foundation (NSF) ATE Grant (with Ching-Song Wei and Francesco Crocco): A Simulation-Based Curriculum to Accelerate Math Remediation and Improve Degree Completion for STEM Majors, 2015-2019. ($875,794)
- PSC CUNY Research Award, Enhanced: Validating an elementary algebra concept inventory, 2018-2019. ($11,363.75)
- BMCC/CUNY Faculty Publication Grant: Framework for Algebraic Conceptual Understanding in the College Context, 2018-2019. ($5000)
- BMCC/CUNY Faculty Development Grant: Validation of the Elementary Algebra Concept Inventory, 2016. ($5000)
- CUNY Improving Undergraduate Mathematics Learning Grant: Increasing Student Success and Retention in Mathematics through Student-Centered Instruction and Collaborative Learning, Jan 2010 – June 2011. ($58,026)