MODULARIZED MATH WITH SOFTWARE: MODMATH

Greta Harris-HardlandTarrant County College

WHAT IS MODMATH?

Nine separate modules created from the 3 traditional developmental math courses

Each module is a 1-hour, 5-week course. Repetitive topics removed from curriculum Learning outcomes are aligned from College

Algebra to Pre-algebra. Students use MyMathLab (instructional

software package from Pearson). Students are assessed with MyMathTest and

advised for placement.

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE DISTRICT(FORT WORTH AREA)

TCC has 5 campuses and enrolled over 50,000 students in fall 2011.

TCC is the sixth-largest college or university in Texas.

In 2006, TCC began reviewing the success rates of students in developmental math courses: Less than 50% pass these courses.

MODMATH’S HISTORY

TCC hosted summit in 2007 with area four-year and two-year institutions.

Faculty and administrators defined standard learning outcomes for College Algebra.

Faculty “backward mapped” and vertically aligned the learning outcomes needed to reach College Algebra.

Faculty created modules using MyMathLab, placement exam using MyMathTest, and example test questions for each instructor to use as reference.

ADVANTAGES FOR THE STUDENT

“Enters” sequence at different points Receives an individualized plan Can complete remediation faster More remedial options for “near-cut-off”

Accuplacer scores May repeat modules

SCALE UP

ModMath launched in Fall 2008

Enrollment in ModMath steadily growing:

406 students enrolled in Spring 2009 1,227 students enrolled in Spring 2010 Over 2,000 enrolled in Spring 2012

COMPARING SUCCESS RATES OF MODMATH AND TRADITIONAL MATH

COMPARING SUCCESS RATES OF MODMATH AND TRADITIONAL MATH STUDENTS

During the first 4 semesters: In Pre-Algebra, ModMath students’ success

rate (rate of receiving at least a “C” grade) was at least 20% higher.

In Beginning Algebra, ModMath students’ success rate was at least 12% higher.

In Intermediate Algebra, ModMath students’ success rate was at least 13% higher.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Download event materials and learn more at

www.PostsecondaryResearch.org

For more information about ModMath, contact Greta Harris-Hardland at greta.harris-hardland@tccd.edu

NCPR IS FUNDED BY THE INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION SCIENCES OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONand is a partnership of the Community College Research Center, Teachers College, Columbia University;

MDRC; the Curry School of Education at the University of Virginia; and faculty at Harvard University.