Three units of coursework emphasizing college preparatory algebra and other content of comparable or greater rigor are required. Four units are recommended, including one during the senior year. Students who complete algebra prior to their freshman year must complete at least three additional units in grades 9-12.
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'Dude, aren't you glad we're taking statistics instead of college algebra?'
Unless they’re headed for a career in math or science, college students may be better off without taking college algebra, according to a new study from the Missouri Department of Higher Education.
Students majoring in non-scientific fields could benefit more from taking a different college-level math class, such as statistics or quantitative reasoning, instead of college algebra to complete their degree requirement, the study says. College algebra can be a nightmare for students who don’t have strong math backgrounds, especially if they fail and have to pay to retake the class.
“College algebra is a barrier to higher education for a number of students, and it is not always the ‘right’ mathematics for every student,” said Rusty Monhollon, the department’s assistant commissioner for academic affairs, in a statement. “Some students will attempt college algebra several times before passing the course, spending extra time and money on a class that may not benefit them as much as another type of mathematics course.”
The study—developed by 30 math faculty members from Missouri public colleges and universities—recommends that schools agree to accept alternative courses to college algebra so students can transfer without having to worry about meeting degree requirements.
“Students working toward a degree in science, technology, engineering or math need a strong foundation in algebra, but providing options that are more relevant to each student’s academic and vocational pursuits will improve math education at Missouri’s college and universities,” Monhollon said.
The report also advocates for high schools and colleges to work together to prepare high school students for upper-level math classes.
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