2003-04 Mini Grant Recipient Bruce Cooperstein

Project Title

Videos for Linear Algebra

Nature of the Request

I am requesting $800 to support the electronic videotaping of 40-45 short segments which will be available to all students taking Linear Algebra (Math 21), as well as students from my own sections. They will be available freely as streaming video. The segments will be of 4-10 minutes each in duration and will focus on some algorithm or procedure that students are required to master in this course. Included in each segment will be one or more worked example.

Background and Rationale

Linear algebra is a transition type course in the mathematics curriculum. Like calculus, it requires students to master many techniques, procedures, methods and algorithms but also requires students to begin to learn to apply mathematical reasoning (theory). To master methods students often need to see applications and examples multiple times. However, with such a full curriculum more than a single example worked out in class for any algorithm is prohibited and many are never illustrated. It is a common complaint among students in end-of-course evaluations that not enough examples were done in class. However, using technology we can circumvent this limitation by making additional explanation and examples available using streaming video.

Impact on Teaching and Learning

Students will better learn the algorithms and be able to enact them quicker and more accurately. This will also provide more class time for emphasis on theory (why it works). By making these videos available to students, they can begin to familiarize themselves with the techniques prior to coming to class which will strengthen understanding and comprehension in class where often students are so busy copying what the instructor is saying they cannot focus on the meaning of what is being done.

Project Assessment

Students will weekly be submitting homework of worked exercises demonstrating their understanding of the algorithms and procedures, about 150 in all, giving multiple examples of their work. Students will be given check lists of procedures they will be expected to master and have to report weekly on progress. Student work will be analyzed for the overall quality and perhaps compared with previous classes. In addition there will be several class surveys to get student feedback on the efficacy of the videos. I expect to do extensive documentation of this course and make the results available in the form of an on-line course portfolio.

Continued Funding

No additional funding is expected.