Engineering and Science Integration in Mathematics: An Initiative to Retain and Complete More STEM Majors

Sinclair Community College math faculty, with the support of National Science Foundation Improving Undergraduate STEM Education funding, have developed and pilot tested laboratory activities for college algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. These three introductory classes are critical for college progress and completion. The labs, developed in collaboration with faculty in the Engineering and Physics departments, use robots and Jupyter Notebook to engage students in active learning experiences. Students see the application of mathematical concepts, better understand course concepts, discern the utility of algebraic functions, and develop problem-solving skills. Over 18 math faculty have taught using the labs, which have been refined based on faculty and student feedback and disseminated across the college and to other institutions.

Innovators

• Kerri Bentjen, Assistant Professor, Mathematics
• Robert Chaney, Professor, Mathematics
• Eric Kraus, Associate Professor, Academic Foundations
• Kinga Oliver, Associate Professor, Mathematics