Deliver A Curriculum With Appropriate Discipline Specific Knowledge
The curriculum will address the discipline specific knowledge dictated by professional societies and/or professionals in the workforce.
Objective
Understanding Mathematical Structures
Students will prove theorems or solve problems or explain concepts in the following core areas
abstract algebra structures such as groups, rings, fields, functions, homomorphisms, and isomorphisms.
differential and integral calculus
probability and statistics, particularly inferential statistics, and
transformational geometry to include isometrics and non-isometric transformations such as circles of inversion.
Indicator
MA Comprehensive Oral Examination
Students in the MA program will take an oral examination over the four areas covered in the objective. The oral examination will be scored by a committee of faculty using a rubric developed and approved by department faculty.
Criterion
Successful Completion Of Comprehensive Exam.
100% of the MA students will receive a grade of "Pass" or "High Pass" on each of the four areas according to the attached rubric.
Finding
Results
Two students took their MA comprehensive exams in March and both received a "pass." Two other students will be taking their MA comprehensive examinations this July. Both students could improve in stating their arguments and polishing their proofs.
Action
Future Enrollment And Course Offerings
Our MA advisor believes both students taking their comprehensive exams this July will do well. This action will be updated when we have the results. Graduate students need more experience and practice with polishing their proofs, which can be accomplished with more in-class presentations.
Goal
Develop Research Skills
Students will develop research skills commensurate with graduate student status.
Objective
Demonstrate Research Skills
Students completing the MA in Mathematics will demonstrate research skills.
Indicator
Research Project Rubric
MA students complete an independent research project. A rubric is used to score the project.
Criterion
80% Or Better On Project Rubric
Students will be rated at least 80% on the project rubric.
Finding
Results - Research Project
One (out of one) student successfully completed her research project this past semester. Although the student did well on the project, her writing could improve.
Action
Upcoming Research Projects.
Assuming the two students who are taking their comprehensive examinations in July pass successfully, they will begin working on their MA research projects in the 2012-2013 academic year. We will work to mentor them more effectively in the area of writing.