Program in Course Redesign

Virginia Tech

Course Title: Linear Algebra
Redesign Coordinator: John Rossi

Virginia Tech redesigned its Linear Algebra course to improve learning-success rates and increase retention of material for later use by offering more options for self-directed study than were possible in traditional lecture-and-lab-based courses. Enrolling about 1500 students in the fall term and 500 in the spring term, the course redesign involved replacing the 40-student section model with one large course structure in VT's Math Emporium, a 500-work station computer lab, staffed by faculty, teaching assistants and undergraduate peer tutors who provide one-to-one onsite help. A Web-based resource system (interactive tutorials, computation examples, an electronic textbook, and online quizzes) increased student feedback and allowed 24 x 7 access to course materials. The redesign plan was expected to result in a cost-per-student reduction from $91 to $27, a projected annual operating cost reduction of more than $128,180. The results of the completed redesign can be found by following the links listed below under Final Report.

Initial Planning (as of 7/1/99)

Interim Progress Report (as of 12/31/00)

Final Report (as of 12/31/01)

 

 

Program in Course Redesign Quick Links:

Program In Course Redesign Main Page...

Lessons Learned:
Round 1...
Round II...
Round III...

Savings:
Round I...
Round II...
Round III...

Project Descriptions:
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