1. MathPatch:
A way of supporting teaching quantitative concepts in a geoscience class

2. Highline Community College
Open Admissions
15,000 students
63% Female, average age 25, Majority non-white
85% enter with below college level mathematics skills (Intermediate algebra)

3. Make Geology 101 more quantitative
The Goal:
Make Geology 101 more quantitative

4. The problems: No appropriate pre-requisite
Math level not a predictor of achievement in either quantitative performance or math performance
10 week quarter – not much time to do additional instruction

5. The solution MathPatch
A 1-credit course that meets 2 times per week for the first half of the quarter
Required co-requisite, but students can “challenge” the course or request a waiver based on pre-test.
Teaches needed background right before it is needed in class.
Run since 2003

6. The Results Increased quantitative content for all instructors
Increased retention (73% → 85%)
Improved performance in geology class
------
Reduced enrollment?
Difficulty in scheduling