Updated at 7:15 a.m., Thursday, December 20, 2007
UH-West Oahu to open Math Center in spring 2008
Advertiser Staff
Beginning in Spring 2008, UH-West O'ahu will open a new undergraduate Math Center. In addition to assistance with class assignments, student math tutors and tutees will work together on real-world mathematics applications involving the internationally renowned sailing vessel, the Hokule'a. In collaboration with the Polynesian Voyaging Society and other community organizations, the teams will present projects at the end of the semester.Examples of project topics include investigating navigation calculations with geometric properties, analyzing the relationship between math and the environment, and determining the mathematical seafaring methods that brought the ancient Pacific Islanders to the Hawaiian Islands.
The new Math Center aims to enhance the student experience at UH-West O'ahu through a culturally sensitive mathematics curriculum, and combines academic mentoring with personalized tutoring. Drawing on the strength of UH-West O'ahu's diverse student body, the center will be staffed with undergraduate tutors, each partnered with students enrolled in Math 100 (Survey of Mathematics) and Math 103 (College Algebra) classes.
"The peer-to-peer learning experience is very effective," says UH-West O'ahu assistant professor of mathematics, Linda Furuto. "The Math Center serves as a valuable first step in reaching the university's long-term goal of providing bachelor's degrees in math education and math within the next five to 10 years."
The Math Center will be located in Building B Room 108 until a permanent location is confirmed.
