New GHC STEMFIT ‘math boot camp’ aims to put incoming students ahead

Georgia Highlands College’s new STEMFIT “math boot camp” will be taking place from July 16 to July 20 to help incoming high school dual enrollment students or college freshmen be prepared to start at a collegiate mathematic level of pre-calculus or higher.

STEM is an acronym for the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. STEM relates to academics and careers focused in corresponding fields.

The pilot program is free and is sponsored by the GHC Center for STEM Learning and a University System of Georgia STEM Initiative grant.

“The camp is for anyone who has been admitted into GHC who has the minimum SAT/ACT score to qualify for taking the Math 1111 exemption test,” Dean of the Division of Mathematics and Computer Science Melanie Largin said.

She stated the camp will refresh college algebra skills and improve students’ chances of passing the exemption test so they can start in Math 1113.

Dean of Natural Science and Physical Education Greg Ford explained it is important to begin college at the Math 1113 level since most STEM pathways require either pre-calculus (Math 1113) or calculus I as the first credit level mathematics course and since pre-calculus is the co-requisite or pre-requisite course for many of the required science courses.

The free “math boot camp” will include the use of active learning strategies for college algebra content, daily practice exams and exclusive one-on-one time with GHC professors in a real college classroom.

At the end of the program, students may take the Math 1111 exemption test. Those who pass will receive the opportunity to also take a Math 1113 exemption test. (There is no fee associated with the in-house exams).

For more questions or to register, contact math@highlands.edu or call 678/872/8070.

Where: Georgia Highlands College Cartersville Campus

When: The week of July 16-20, 2018. (M-Th 9am-2pm, F 9am-12pm)

Who: Any incoming students eligible to take the Math 1111 exemption exam

*Attendance every day is mandatory to encourage student success*