Redesigning The Classroom

The Department of Mathematics is mixing up the equation by considering a course redesign for Business Calculus classes.

The redesign will consist of students attending class twice a week for 50 minute each while spending an addition 50 minutes in a lab. This is opposed to the current class periods where students spend 150 minutes in the classroom per week. It is not certain when the change will take place but it could be as soon Fall 2011.

In the lab, business calculus students will use Hawkes Learning System or a similar program to complete homework assignments, review lessons, and test students’ knowledge. Tutors are available in the lab to help students that may have difficulties with the reduction in hands-on class time.

Many universities have resorted to using online sources to teach students. This technique is known as the Emporium Method. The University of Alabama has benefitted from using a similar program.

The redesign does have some kinks that must be worked out before it is put into action. Lack of computers cause long lines. Business calculus students would add to the mix of math students already cramming into the lab.

Julie Anderson, a business calculus instructor at the University of Mississippi said, “We will have to have more space.”

According to Anderson, the University is considering purchasing the old Walmart building on Jackson Avenue to increase space. The new location would provide plenty of room for a new lab and possibly even office space for instructors.

But even with improvements in space, students and teachers have mixed emotions about the change.

Junior Troy Walther, a double major in political science and accounting, is not happy about the possibility of spending time in the lab.

“I very much dislike having to go to the computer lab because it is inconvenient and it does not always fit in to my time schedule,” said Walther.

Sophomore Mary Houston Matthews thinks the change is for the better.

“I think the math lab would help students because calculus is something that students need to practice with. The lab would force students that get by with skipping class to actually learn the material,” said Matthews.

However, Anderson is still skeptical.

“If I thought it worked I would be for it, but I love being in the classroom," said Anderson. "To me, it’s not really teaching."