A Fresh Start for Collegiate Mathematics Nancy Baxter Hastings,
Editor Each year, over 1,000,000 students take college-level
courses below calculus such as pre-calculus, college algebra and
others that fulfill general education requirements. Most college
algebra courses, and certainly all pre-calculus courses, were
originally intended to prepare students for calculus. Most are
still offered in this spirit, even though only a small
percentage of students has any intention of taking calculus. The
MAA'S goal has been to refocus the courses below calculus to
provide better mathematical experiences for all students. This
initiative involves a greater emphasis on conceptual
understanding with a de-emphasis on rote manipulation. The use
of realistic applications, math modeling and data analysis that
reflect the way mathematics is used in other disciplines is
encouraged, along with active learning approaches (including
group work, exploratory activities and projects). The initiative
emphasizes communication skills: r