Keynote: Taking the Algebra out of College Algebra
Have you ever dreamed of teaching a pre-calculus level course where the algebraic manipulation is de-emphasized and the emphasis is shifted to conceptual understanding and practical skills that directly apply to transfer classes? For students to learn concepts, students need to have the time to explore and make mistakes around the concepts (not the procedures). You can teach the same curriculum and make time for active learning and concept focus, but you do have to redesign the learning and assessment while looking at the objectives through a new lens.
Bio: Dr. Andersen has spent most of her career teaching mathematics at the college level. In the last decade, she has become extremely active in the use of technology in learning. She built iPad games to teach algebra, launched the Canvas Network MOOC platform, built adaptive learning platforms used by McGraw Hill, and worked as the Director of Learning Design for WGU. As a professor, Dr. Andersen was president of MichMATYC, the Professional Development Coordinator for AMATYC, the Director of the MCC Math & Technology Workshop , and wrote the “Teaching with Tech” column for MAA Focus. Maria is a software designer, an author, a speaker, and the CEO of Coursetune. She holds degrees in Math, Chemistry, Biology, Business Administration, and Higher Education Leadership
