Wednesday, August 02, 2017

No intermediate algebra, no problem: California State University System ditches tricky math prerequisite

The San Jose Mercury News reports:
If you’re one of those students who dreads math — especially algebra — you’ll soon get a bit of a break at the California State University system.

For years, intermediate algebra had been a prerequisite for the system’s general math classes, meaning even students who weren’t majoring in math or science related fields had to complete the course before they could complete their math requirement. Beginning in the fall of 2018, students whose majors aren’t math or science heavy will be able to fulfill their math requirements without slogging through intermediate algebra first — part of a larger effort to increase graduation rates.

“What that means for students is they have more choices,” said Christine Mallon, CSU’s associate vice chancellor for academic programs and faculty development.
There's more:
“College-level algebra is probably the greatest barrier for students — particularly first-generation students, students of color — obtaining a credential,” he told the Times. “If we know we’re disadvantaging large swaths of students who we need in the workforce, we have to question why. And is algebra really the only means we have to determine whether a student is going to be successful in their life?”
For you employers out there : will the California State system mean a real college degree ? California State system: ethnic studies course mandatory, math not necessary !