The Mathematics Laboratory and the Single Student

Abstract

Ralph C. Williams, Professor of Mathematics at Pasadena City College, received his Ph.D. in 1966 from the University of Southern California. He has taught mathematics in Pasadena schools since 1946, has been a teaching consultant for many districts in Southern California, and is the author of several mathematics texts. During the past three years, he has concentrated on developing a personalized system of mathematics instruction at Pasadena City College. For as long as most of us can remember, the standard organization of the elementary mathematics instruction has been the classroom, a chalkboard, and a group of students called the class. Currently there are numerous experiments under way in alternative modes of instruction, many of them concerned with individualizing the instructional program. Among these is the mathematics laboratory. Pasadena City College opened its Math Lab to the individual student in the fall of 1970. This report deals with some of the background that led to the formation of the Lab and happenings now taking place as it moves into its second year. The Lab at Pasadena City College is in a slightly modified classroom. The room was the largest one available and was originally designed for adaptive changes. Twelve carrels were outfitted with cassette tape players and headphones. Four television monitors are mounted on the walls with the audio wired to headphones. The cost of equipment and room modification was shared by the district, two grants from NDEA Title III, and modest contributions of my own. If the equipment were purchased today it would cost less than $7,000. The remodeling was priced at about $2,000. The Laboratory, modified and equipped for operation, cost less than $10,000 over the cost of the existing room. According to the department chairman, the Lab has made possible a savings of $21,000 in instructional costs this past school year over the cost for the same number of students enrolled in regular classes. Three separate programs are carried on in the Lab. The Lab is open ten hours a day. Students from any course in the