A Hybrid Approach for Teaching Calculus

Abstract

At Binghamton University, Calculus I is taught to over 1,000 students each Fall. The satisfaction and performance of students in this course is often poor. This can lead to students dropping their intended major or continuing through their curriculum with weakened advanced math skills and negative attitudes toward math, which can have a harmful effect on core subjects in their major. Given the critical role of mathematics in many majors, finding new, more effective approaches to ensure student success is critical.

The Department of Mathematics and the Watson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences propose a powerful hybrid instructional method to address this problem. Our hybrid approach has three main aspects: (1) implement a flipped classroom model for Calculus I using best practices of our field, (2) employ a pre-calculus screening exam for early identification and focused remediation for students with weak skills, (3) develop targeted tutorials in conjunction with on-going skills assessment to address student weaknesses and keep students “on-track” during the semester.