Academically Talented Students' Preparation for Advanced-Level Coursework after Individually-Paced Precalculus Class

Abstract

Nine months after participating in a three-week individualized, flexiblypaced precalculus course, 239 academically talented students who received placement into a subsequent advanced math course in regular school (placement course) completed a questionnaire which assessed: (a) perceived preparation for advanced level work, (b) grades received in the placement course, and (c) perceived challenge of the individually-paced course relative to the placement course. Responses indicated that students experienced greater challenge in the individually-paced precalculus course than in their school placement course. Self-reported grades, as well as students' perceptions of their preparation for advanced level coursework suggest that individually-paced courses prepare students to be successful in placement courses in their schools. Mathematics courses which allow students to proceed at a pace of learning matched to their abilities, followed by appropriate placement in their schools, provide an educational opportunity to meet the special academic needs of talented students.