If you are a Developmental Math student at Palo Alto, you are definitely not alone.
Sixty-eight percent of Palo Alto students were enrolled in developmental math courses last semester. The numbers for the Spring 2000 are still in the works, but according to the math department, the percentage will probably be even higher.
The score on the math section of the TASP determines how many developmental courses a student must take before enrolling in college-level mathematics for college credit. Students may have to enroll in up to three developmental courses before reaching college-level math.
One of the drawbacks of these courses is that they are very time consuming and students often get discouraged because they are not acquiring college credit.
“I don't think you need three classes to work your way up to college level,” said Daniel Olvera, a freshman Engineering major at Palo Alto, who is currently enrolled in Developmental Algebra.
“If you have to take Remedial Math, it's better because it prepares you for your TASP and college-level math as well,” said Dominga Lopez, a freshman Education major, who is currently enrolled in Developmental Algebra.
“Remedial math serves as an important tool for those students who have been out of school for a while because it helps to refresh their memory and develop their math skills,” said Sounny Slitine, a Mathematics professor at Palo Alto.
“Most of the students are misplaced and simply need a little practice with their math skills,” said Slitine. Slitine said he tries to help his students “see the big picture and apply math to everyday life.”
Teaching methods vary amongst high school districts, and not all students reach college at the same level. This is certainly evident with the majority of incoming freshmen who score at developmental levels. Low mathematics scores seem to be a problem at the national level as well. Fifty-eight percent of American high school students are below average in their math skills, according to a standardized test that was administered to twelfth graders. According to the Department of Education, Americans overall test scores in math were of the lowest when compared to other countries.
For those of you who fumble your way through developmental math, there are ways to put your math troubles at ease. First and foremost, don't hesitate to ask your professors for help. Students should take the initiative to ask questions because there is plenty of help available, and many students do not take advantage of it.
“We are asking students to be more proactive and seek that outside assistance,” said Loran Gierhart, Chairperson of the Math Department. Gierhart encourages students to utilize every resource available in order to help them with any trouble they may be having with developmental math.
The student Learning Assistance Center, or SLAC, also offers individual as well as group tutoring in any subject. There are instructional videotapes and other tutorial software that students can borrow at the Developmental Math Lab.
Laura Lopez, who is the TASP coordinator at Palo Alto, mentioned the B or Better Option. If students successfully complete all developmental courses with at least a C, they will be allowed to enroll in college-level Algebra, even if they are TASP failed in math. However, before being allowed into college Algebra, the student must retest in an attempt to pass the math portion of the TASP. If the student fails once again, they will still be allowed in College Algebra. A grade of a B in this course will complete the TASP requirement.
For more information about the B or Better Option, or to obtain a schedule of TASP testing dates and registration, stop by the TASP office in the Palomino Center.
David Garza, Counselor and Passkey Advisor, offers some helpful advice to those students struggling in developmental math. “Don't give up, and seek help from counselors. Keep your goals in mind and let them serve as your motivation. Stick with it and eventually, you will make it through.” Counselors are always available to help students with any problems or questions they may encounter.
Students may also look into the Passkey program that is located on campus in the Student Center. Passkey is a program geared towards helping students successfully get through college by offering advisement, tutorials, and assistance with books.
Some students, like Dominga Lopez, a freshman Education major, are content with their developmental math class. “It's all just refreshment for me and it will really help me in the long run,” said Lopez.
Developmental Math courses may be time consuming, but it is crucial in order for students to be successful when they reach college-level mathematics, according to Gierhart.
Don't stress out. “Math is like a brick wall,” said Gierhart. “You must first have a strong foundation and then build on it.”