Algebra Recitation Program

During the 2019-2020 academic year, 40% of incoming students were placed into a developmental mathematics course, creating implications for increased time to degree completion. A revised model was implemented in 2020-2021, shifting from a traditional two-course sequence to a co-requisite single-course model that placed students directly into College Algebra. This course focused on mastery learning and established objectives for key prerequisite content review. In fall 2021, content knowledge scores and low ASC usage indicated the need for further revisions. The average content knowledge for Latino/a students was 24.5% and 28.8% for white students, and ASC visits averaged 0.3 per Latino/a student and 0.2 per white student. In fall 2022, College Algebra began requiring students to attend recitation sessions for 5% of their grade. During these sessions, students engage with ASC professionals to solve problems, complete assignments, review materials, and prepare for exams. Additionally, students could sign up for one-on-one appointments with the same tutors. To ensure the program practices intentionally serve a course with more than 50% Latino students, the program incorporates OER textbooks and ALEKS, an adaptive AI learning and assessment technology system. Instructors also employ culturally responsive teaching methods such as experiential project-based assessments related to the students’ lived realities, including projecting the cost of a loan, sales at sporting events, and medicine dosing for patients.