New KCC math classes offer more precision, flexibility

A student faces a white board to work on a math problem.

Kellogg Community College is offering three new math courses this fall including two online/classroom hybrid algebra courses and a KCC faculty-designed course created specifically for occupational education and applied trade students.

The new courses, all of which are worth four credits at KCC, include:

  • MATH 102: Practical Algebra
  • MATH 105: Beginning Algebra
  • MATH 125: College Algebra

Carole Davis, chair of the Math and Science Department at KCC, said the new 102 and 105 sections are the result of College faculty recognizing the need for more distinct pathways when it comes to math for students. Formerly all introductory math students would take MATH 101 regardless of their degree plans; that course no longer exists, and beginning this fall, students who plan on getting an occupational ed or applied trade degree or certificate can take the Practical Algebra option, while students interested transferring to another school can take the Beginning Algebra path.

Davis said the new option will allow the occ ed/applied trade students to receive more precise training as to the math used for their particular disciplines, converting measurements for pipefitters, HVAC-R technicians or welders, for example, or calculating dosages for nursing students.

The Beginning Algebra and College Algebra courses are also offered as hybrid sections, a type of KCC course offered 50 percent online and 50 percent on campus in the classroom. Davis said such courses are more convenient for students who have tighter schedules but also still want face time with an instructor.

“The main benefit is that students can economize their time here on campus,” Davis said. “They can take a hybrid course and learn the basic fundamental coursework at home online, and then come to class learn more detail, ask questions and work with other students on problems.”

MATH 125: College Algebra will provide students with the math skills necessary to take higher math courses in trigonometry and pre-calculus at KCC, and is also transferable as part of the Michigan Transfer Agreement, which facilitates the transfer of core education courses to four-year colleges and universities in the state.

Registration is open now for Fall 2015 classes at KCC, which start Aug. 27. Individuals interested in registering can view registration information online at www.kellogg.edu/registration. More information about math and science studies at KCC is available online at www.kellogg.edu/math-science.

KCC’s Summer 2015 semester ends Aug. 10.

For more news about Kellogg Community College, view our latest news releases online at daily.kellogg.edu/category/news-releases.