Mathematics Preparation in the World: Similarities and Differences

Published in: Engineering Innovations for Global Sustainability: Proceedings of the 14th Latin American and Caribbean Conference for Engineering and Technology
Date of Conference: July 20-22, 2016
Location of Conference: San Jose, Costa Rica
Authors: Wes Grebski
Michalene Grebski
Refereed Paper: #43

Abstract:

Abstract- This paper outlines the results of an initial study conducted by the authors which compares the Math preparation of incoming freshman Engineering students. This baseline comparison was made by measuring the level of Math preparation of fifty randomly selected students in China, Peru, Poland and the United States. The study was done with the objective of looking at each countries experiences and identifying the best practices which produce the highest success rate in teaching Mathematics. The authors of this presentation would like to identify those best practices and implement them into the teaching of Mathematics at Penn State Hazleton. Increasing the students’ success rate in Mathematics would also increase the retention rate in the Engineering program at Penn State Hazleton. In addition to comparing the level of Math preparation, data has been collected on student and teacher perception and attitude toward the teaching and learning of Mathematics. Using the baseline data, the authors of this presentation have outlined limited conclusions and suggestions. In addition, they have also outlined further areas of academic study to collect more statistically valid data.