标题：Evaluating the performance of engineering undergraduates who entered without A-level mathematics via a specialist six-week “bridging technology” programme
其他标题：Evaluating the performance of engineering undergraduates who entered without A-level mathematics via a specialist six-week “bridging technology” programme
摘要：This study reports on the progress of undergraduate students who, during the summer of 2005, participated in a top-up mathematics programme at the University of Glamorgan. Bridging Technology with Mathematics was developed to improve the mathematical preparedness of prospective students for the mathematical demands of engineering in Higher Education (HE). The course was designed in response to a serious decline in students’ mastery of basic mathematical skills and level of preparation for mathematics-based degree courses.This paper evaluates whether the course was able to provide students with sufficient mathematical competence/understanding to successfully complete the mathematical elements of their degree courses. Opinions and experiences regarding the Bridging Technology with Mathematics programme were also sought from engineering lecturers and the students themselves.Findings show that students who entered engineering degree programmes through the Bridging Technology with Mathematics route performed better than their fellow students in both mathematical and non-mathematical module assessments. The programme provided the additional benefits of improving students’ mathematical competence and confidence, academic motivation, preparedness for HE and conviction that they had chosen the correct course.
