<< mathedcc@archives.math.utk.edu >>
I have had similar success teaching a PreCalculus course that meets for 5
weeks, 4 times a week, 3 hours each class. I am sure this is due to the fact
that we meet almost everyday for an extended period of time. This format
allows the students to immerse themselves in the subject and the longer
classes gives me the chance to use a variety of teaching techniques. Another
big plus is this class meets from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Everybody is wide
awake and ready to work!
During our Fall and Spring semeters I offer an accelerated algebra course that
covers the equivalent of Intro Alg and Intermediate algebra. In this class we
meet mwf 9-10 and TuTh 9:30-10:45. Although these classes are not as long as
I like, meeting everyday makes a big difference. Attendance is high, few
students drop out, and we all get to know each other better. Also, in doing
the entire algebra sequence in one semester you avoid any overlap between the
two courses.
One of my old professors once told me that math is best learned by doing it
everyday. I believe the above formats provide the best opportunity for this
to happen.
Jim Sullivan
Mass Bay CC
****************************************************************************
* To post to the list: email mathedcc@archives.math.utk.edu *
* To unsubscribe, send mail to: majordomo@archives.math.utk.edu *
* In the mail message, enter ONLY the words: unsubscribe mathedcc *
* Words in the Subject: line are NOT processed! *
* Archives at http://archives.math.utk.edu/hypermail/mathedcc/ *
****************************************************************************