Instead of routing underprepared students through developmental (or remedial) math courses, the institution places these students into a gateway math class aligned to their program of study and pairs that course with a complementary co-requisite course. This instructional model has dramatically improved retention and success rates. A recent article published by the school reported that math classes that include a co-requisite option are boasting 72% pass rates.
“We are reframing placement as a snapshot in time that provides students the opportunity to improve their initial placement level by working through an individualized study-plan based on their initial diagnostic,” [professor Lauren] Fern said.
Key to the new system is a self-paced program called EdReady, made available to UM students through the generosity of the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation. EdReady is a personalized, free, online platform that helps students master the math skills they need to succeed. Students can work at their own pace in a program that is tailored to their precise needs.
