Course Redesign The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL

Course Redesign Intermediate Algebra Redesign -Fully Implemented Current Enrollment: Fa09-Sp10= large sections: 100 students per section Goal of Redesign – to increase student success

Intermediate Algebra Course Structure Currently Offered 50 minute “classes” once a week 3 hours of additional lab attendance each week at the discretion of the student (waived if > 70% on all assignments due in a week) Homework and quizzes are worked on the objectives to be learned Tests are given on demand with a specified completion date Relies heavily on communication with students

Course Redesign - Planning Administration Support, Money School Visits Space, Equipment Staffing, Training, Organization Start with a committed team – no room for doubt Be prepared for surprises – flexibility matters!

Course Redesign - Planning Course Structure Departmental team vs single instructor Logistics Class Meetings Testing Communication Policies Policies from the beginning have evolved 180 degrees Carrots don’t work, sticks do Needs can not always be predicted

Course Redesign – Learning Materials Textbook Software Package Learning tools Addresses different student learning styles Abundance of problems to choose from for assignments Grade book accommodates policies that matter User friendly for students and faculty Local supplements

Student Reactions Perceived Advantages Flexibility in scheduling Ability to move at own pace Instant feedback Availability of individual help Equality of presentation Equality of testing Elimination of language problems

Student Reactions Perceived Disadvantages Technical problems frustrating Confusion regarding course policies Lack of a “teacher” Inconsistent availability and quality of help Necessity of self-discipline for students

Contact Information Jamie Glass MTLC Lab Coordinator The University of Alabama