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Improving Success and Retention for Underserved Students at Penn College
The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Pennsylvania College of Technology a Title III Strengthening Institutions Program Grant to implement a comprehensive redesign of its math curricula.
Titled “Improving Success and Retention for Underserved Students at Penn College,” this initiative aims to enhance educational outcomes for students, particularly those enrolled in developmental math courses. These courses are critical as they serve as gateways to most STEM majors, which are essential for equipping students with the skills needed for sustainable, high-demand careers. By strengthening the institution's capacity to support underserved students, the project seeks to boost retention and success rates, ultimately contributing to a more robust and capable American workforce and economy.
“The awarding of the grant is a testament to our unwavering commitment to student learning,” said Joanna Flynn, vice president for academic affairs and provost. “This funding reinforces our dedication to providing transformative educational experiences, equipping our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen paths. We embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm, reaffirming our mission to cultivate future leaders and innovators.”
Grant objectives
Grant funds will be utilized for personnel, classroom equipment and professional development expenditures.
In addition to hiring a math coordinator, project coordinator and professional math tutors, the project will enhance classrooms by creating three “smart rooms,” featuring a range of audiovisual technologies supporting the integration of online learning. The “smart rooms” and seven additional classrooms will also receive wall-to-wall whiteboard installations to promote collaboration and student engagement during lessons.
“We’re aiming to create a more engaging and interactive math classroom experience, specifically designed for our technology-focused students.”
Ed Owens , associate professor of mathematics and math coordinator for the grant
History of success
Penn College has a proven track record in increasing students’ math scores. In 2016, a pilot project focusing on college algebra and trigonometry introduced a lab component and other collaborative learning techniques. This plan produced a rise in test scores of striking proportions. The endeavor attracted attention from other colleges and universities seeking to replicate its success, and ultimately led to the addition of a lab component for all college algebra and trigonometry courses.
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“Classroom practices are being adapted to focus even less on traditional lecture, with students collaborating more in small groups, actively engaging and brainstorming ideas on whiteboards. This hands-on approach encourages movement, interaction and discussion, similar to the lab experiences of technical students.”
Ed Owens
associate professor of mathematics and math coordinator for the grant