THE M A SS E Y M AT H E M AT I C S LABOR ATO R Y E Q U A L S S U C C E SS FOR CA R LOW S T U D E N T S
Success in mathematics is one of the best predictors of success in college. However, distressingly enough, the United States ranks 25th among 30 peer nations in math literacy and problem solving. In an effort to reverse those numbers, Carlow University—thanks to a grant from the Massey Charitable Trust— has created the Massey Mathematics Laboratory to enhance the math skills of all learners, but especially the skill levels of students who enter college with precollege math skills. “Our goal is to make sure students are prepared for the math LAI (Language Arts Instruction),” says Betsy Hunt, coordinator of the Massey Mathematics Lab, which is located on the fourth floor of Grace Library. “This is both a collaborative and cooperative classroom.” The Massey Mathematics Lab uses Carnegie Learning and Cognitive Tutor® software as the centerpieces of the lab. “The two systems work together to allow students to learn at their own pace,” says Hunt. Carnegie Learning, Inc. was founded by cognitive and computer scientists from Carnegie Mellon University, who, in conjunction with veteran
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mathematics teachers, have created an innovative math curriculum that helps students succeed in math. Cognitive Tutor is a modularized system that allows students to progress through modules that introduce and reinforce key mathematics concepts. Students learn to work independently and become responsible for how quickly they work through each concept. “Possessing the necessary mathematics skills is essential for college success,” says Robert M. Connolly, executive director of the Massey Charitable Trust. “Building this lab is proof that Carlow University very much recognizes
the necessity for all of its graduates to have solid mathematics skills. As long time supporters of Carlow, our trustees wanted to demonstrate how important we think this project is for the University and for western Pennsylvania.” Carlow dedicated the Massey Mathematics Lab on November 30, 2010. “The Massey Mathematics Lab gives students in need of developmental math skills an opportunity to focus on those skills,” says Karen Galentine, vice president for University Advancement at Carlow. “It meets a great need for Carlow students.”