A National Survey of Community College Math Department Chairs

• In Event: 34.050 - A Wake-Up Call: Mathematics as an Equalizer for Social Justice and Equity

Abstract

Dr. Burn will highlight data from the National Survey of Community College Mathematics Chairs (CC-MC) The CC-MC is a modified version of a survey conducted in a synergistic NSF project titled Progress through Calculus. The survey contains 51 questions that explored the following areas: course offerings and sequencing, teaching/course modalities, balance between developmental and college-level mathematics within a program, course coordination, placement practices, student supports, quality improvement priorities, use of data and using disaggregated data and professional development needs. The survey launched in March of 2017 to a list of math chairs in public, associate degree-granting institutions. A total of 453 unique campuses responded (44% response rate). Findings serve to elucidate the different ways that systemic oppression occurs in the ways that programs are taught, structured, resourced, and staffed. The sample included 108 (24%) Hispanic-Serving Institutions, which provide an illuminating point of comparison. These findings have direct implications for student equity and success for historically underserved students.

Author

• Helen Burn, Highline College