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Department of Mathematics,
University of California San Diego

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Math 295 - Mathematics Colloquium

David Bressoud

Macalester College \\ Dept. of Mathematics and Computer Science

Issues of the Transition to College Mathematics

Abstract:

Over the past quarter century, 2- and 4-year college enrollment in first semester calculus has remained constant while high school enrollment in calculus has grown tenfold, from 60,000 to 600,000, and continues to grow at 6\% per year. We have passed the cross-over point where each year more students study first semester calculus in US high schools than in all 2- and 4-year colleges and universities in the United States. In theory, this should be an engine for directing more students toward careers in science, engineering, and mathematics. In fact, it is having the opposite effect. This talk will present what is known about the effects of this growth and what needs to happen in response within our high schools and universities. \\ \noindent David Bressoud is the current President of the Mathematical Association of America.

Sponsors: UCSD Department of Mathematics and the Joint Ph. D. Program in Mathematics and Science Education (MSED)

June 3, 2010

4:00 PM

AP&M 6402

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