Effective tutorial programmes in tertiary mathematics

Abstract

Papers presented at earlier Delta conferences reported on the use of collaborative tutorials and peer-tutors in undergraduate mathematics courses at The University of Auckland. This paper reports on significant developments within the Department's programmes, including the extension of the collaborative small-class tutorials to cover all first-year undergraduate courses in the department. It provides evidence of the effectiveness of the tutorial programme, as gauged from a survey of students’ perceptions. Many of the students enrolled in the Tutoring in Mathematics course that initially trains and provides the peer-group tutors continue on as tutors in other mathematics courses within the Department. Some subsequently enrol in the University's Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary). The effects of the tutoring course on tutors continuing to tutor at higher levels, and their performances as novice teachers in the Diploma course are examined.