Teaching Intermediate Algebra using Cooperative Learning and Mentor

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This paper describes a summary of an experimental study that I have conducted at the University of Wisconsin -Whitewater in the Fall of 1994. I have taught three out of twenty-four Sections of Intermediate Algebra using Cooperative Learning approach together with Mentors. The goal was to investigate the impact of this approach on students’ performance by comparing the success rate of each Section (in the Pilot Group) against 21 Sections in Control Group. The study has shown that the students in two Pilot Sections made a significant improvement in their test scores.

Since 1987 I have been conducting experimental studies in teaching different undergraduate mathematics courses using Cooperative Learning approach. The results were positive and the teaching style, indeed, enhanced students’ learning and performance. In Fall 1994, with the strong support of campus administration I have decided to implement this approach together with mentors in teaching three out of twenty-four Sections of Intermediate Algebra. This project was funded by a grant from the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater. The fund has been used to hire four students(to serve as Mentors and grade weekly homework assignments), and also to pay a part-time academic staff to grade all exams for Pilot Group. Download free Teaching Intermediate Algebra using Cooperative Learning and Mentor.pdf here