Does a Modified Math Emporium Work for All Students?

Mathematics Emporia, or dedicated technology-supported learning environments designed to support large numbers of students in predominantly developmental mathematics courses, are a relatively recent phenomenon at community colleges and universities across the nation. While the size and number of these emporia has grown, empirical research into the impact of an emporium model on student learning and affect is only now emerging. This is especially true when looking at the impact of an emporium approach on students from diverse backgrounds. This study attempts to fill in the gaps in existing research related to how well emporium models address the needs of students based on gender, race/ethnicity, international status, and first- versus continuing-generation. Findings indicate that not all populations are served equally well by a modified mathematics emporium approach. The need for action to address inequities in student performance and implications for future research are discussed.

ASSESSING THE EMPORIUM MODEL THROUGH STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND PERSISTENCE

The mathematics emporium model (MEM) was implemented to improve student success and retention rates. The college algebra course sequence was redesigned using the emporium model to establish consistency, emphasize active learning, modularize course materials, and provide one-on-one personalized on-demand assistance from faculty and teaching assistants. The emporium model ensured consistent content coverage and learning experiences, improved course coherence, and improved quality control. This study compared the course performance of students enrolled in a college algebra and trigonometry course using the MEM and traditional, lecture method. The results on whether the MEM or traditional students performed better were mixed. Also, the course effectiveness rates, which examines the successful performance of students enrolled in two successive courses that are associated such that the first course provides the foundation for the second, were similar for both the MEM and traditional methods.