Re: Should all cc students be required to pass Intermediate Algebra?

Martha Haehl (haehl@KCMETRO.CC.MO.US)
Thu, 12 Dec 1996 09:58:31 -0600

I'm not sold on Intermediate Algebra as the end-all mathematical
prerequisite for a college level course. I am of the camp that questions
why we spend 90% to 95% of our curriculum on the factorable function which
seems to have no use (other than as a prerequisite for other math courses.)
I believe we are way overdue a college level track that engages students
in mathematical skills and a much higher level of reasoning than is implied
in our skills-based Intermediate Algebra course.

> I just received a posting (which I accidentally deleted) in
>response to a question which I had previously posed about creating a
>mathematical modelling course based on For All Practical Purposes. The
>course which we have in mind would have elementary algebra as a
>prerequisite and be a liberal arts elective. The respondent (sorry, I
>missed the name) urged that we require Intermediate Algebra as the
>prerequisite for such a course. Would any other interested parties please
>give their view on this issue?
>
>Geoff Akst
>Manhattan CC

Martha Haehl
Maple Woods Community College
2601 N. E. Barry Rd.
Kansas City, Missouri 64156

(816)437-3147