Another Form of Undermatching? A Mixed-Methods Examination of First-Year Engineering Students' Calculus Placement

• In Event: 31.047 - Charting Trajectories for College Success

Abstract

A strong calculus foundation is essential to undergraduate Engineering success. This mixed-methods study examined first-year Engineering students’ rationales for initial Calculus course selection and the outcomes associated with their choice at a highly selective, predominately White, research university. We found that 18.4% of students potentially “undermatched” their Calculus course selection, or took a version of Calculus that was lower in ability level than their previous achievement. Students in lower levels of Calculus at this university suffered negative outcomes in both semester-by-semester and graduating GPA, and qualitative data suggests that Calculus course selection is based on affective beliefs such as perceived self-efficacy. The empirical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.

Authors

• Karen K. Inkelas, University of Virginia

• Jennifer L. Maeng, University of Virginia

• Aaron Williams

• Jason S Jones, University of Virginia