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Program in Course Redesign

Iowa State University

Course Title: Discrete Mathematics
Contact: Fritz Keinert

Iowa State University redesigned Discrete Mathematics, a gateway course for a large number of students and a required course for all business and social sciences majors. Enrolling about 1,800 students per year, the original course consisted of two large lectures (~150 students) taught by faculty and temporary instructors and one recitation section (~30 students) taught by teaching assistants each week. The goal was to reduce DWF rates (over 30%), increase consistency, improve student morale and performance and provide more individualized feedback. The plan for the redesigned course structure was modularized and self-paced and included a varied, integrated, proactive system for student support. A Web-based environment integrated WebCT for learning management, EDU for online testing and materials by Barnett/Ziegler/Byleen (Prentice-Hall) for content. The traditional course used 12 faculty members and 15 teaching assistants annually to deliver the course at a cost of $129 per student. The redesigned course was staffed by two faculty, 10 teaching assistants, and a half-time Online Course Manager. The redesign anticipated a per-student cost of $75, a cost reduction of 42% and a projected savings of $97,200 per year. The results of the completed redesign can be found by following the links listed below under Final Report.

Initial Planning (as of 7/1/01)

Interim Progress Report (as of 12/31/02)

Final Report (as of 3/15/04)

 

Program in Course Redesign Quick Links:

Program In Course Redesign Main Page...

Lessons Learned:
Round 1...
Round II...
Round III...

Savings:
Round I...
Round II...
Round III...

Project Descriptions:
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