Current Program

Students enroll in Mathematics and Engineering courses to meet requirements for transfer to four-year institutions. Basic skills classes also offer students developmental opportunities essential for liberal arts and vocational programs. Students may obtain an A.S. degree in General Engineering. In recent years, several factors have affected the program, including changes in technology and the increasing use of technology, as well as college budget conditions.

Degrees and Certificates - No degrees or certificates are offered in Mathematics. An Associate in Science degree is offered in General Engineering.

Personnel - At this time, there are nine full-time faculty members and one part-time faculty member, with one student worker employed in the department.

Teaching Methodologies - At this time lecture and lecture/demonstration are the most widely used methods in the department, with lecture/lab and some computerized instruction also in use.

Technology - The department offers four online Mathematics courses and in summer of 2003 began offering two Astronomy classes online.

Equipment - Several computers in the Mathematics lab need to be upgraded - at least at the teacher's station. Chalkboards and chairs in classrooms need to be replaced.

Facilities - Classrooms and offices are too small. At this time at least two instructors share each cubicle.

Future Program

The program will need to adapt to coming changes in technology, student academic preparation and college recruitment strategies. It is projected that program enrollment will keep pace with overall college enrollment in both the mid term and long term. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - It is expected that within five years the college will offer an Associate in Science degree in Mathematics.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - In the future, the department intends to offer more online courses and more computerized mathematics courses, which will require changes in the teaching methods used.

Technology - Alternative delivery systems will be needed to accommodate the need to offer online and other distance education choices for students.

Equipment - Classroom equipment should be upgraded in the next five years to accommodate electronic, computerized presentations.

Facilities - Larger, electronic classrooms are needed with appropriate furnishings. Office space must be expanded to accommodate private meetings with students.

Staff Development - Staff development activities might include developing strategies to work with basic skills students.

Special Recommendation
The department should explore the addition of a credit computer lab and include alternative methods of instructional delivery to provide more opportunities for students to access the program.