RUME 25
2023
Omaha, Nebraska
Changing the Conversation: Building Success in a Community College Mathematics Classroom
Page: 1085
Calculus remains a major barrier of entry into STEM for students without strong mathematics backgrounds. This study looks at one implementation of the STEM Core model, which provides an accelerated pathway through developmental math classes along with extensive support to get students calculus ready in one year. Viewing this program as a community of practice around math learning I examined course completion data and conducted interviews to understand how the model is impacting student success. Furthermore, I seek to understand what aspects of the model matter most to the students. Initial results of student success rates in the course sequence show significant positive outcomes, with nearly 65% of STEM Core students reaching Calculus I in one year. Interviews with students reveal how their success goes beyond course completion and the importance of the relationships they built with their instructors and one another.