Implementation of Active Learning in Calculus Instruction

Michelle Adkins* and Vicki Sealey, Department of Mathematics, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506

Field (Broad Category): Mathematics (Oral-Science & Technology) 

Student’s Major: Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering 

As students struggle through their calculus classes, many fail, meaning many are at risk to losing their scholarships. Without these scholarships many students cannot afford to continue college, withdrawing from the university or changing their major and giving up their dream. The question becomes, “How can proficiency in math courses, especially calculus be improved?” Different pedagogical approaches in the classroom, such as lecturing and active learning, may have a major impact. Active learning is a method of teaching that engages students in meaningful activities designed to allow students to learn the material as opposed to listening to it in a lecture. Previous research has demonstrated the benefits of active learning, and the goal of our study is to determine how instructors implement active learning in their classrooms. Research has been conducted by observing classrooms, conducting interviews of math faculty at West Virginia University, and reading journal articles. For example, instead of listening to a lecture on mean value theorem, students can work in groups to determine criteria where mean value theorem applies by sketching graphs with different qualities. By discovering the concepts for themselves, students are more likely to retain information. Despite this, many professors oppose active learning. This research also delves into why this occurs. So far, it has been found that common obstacles of active learning include class size, bolted down theater-style seats, student resistance, and a lack of resources. It is predicted that the integration of active learning in conjunction with lecture will increase calculus proficiency. 

Funding: 

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative  efforts: WVU's Research Apprenticeship Program  (R AP) & accompanying HONR 297-level course