PREP (Pre-Emerging Scholars Program)
 
PREP is a program designed for students who, because they hope to pursue careers in Engineering, Mathematics, Math Education or Science, will need to master a great deal of Mathematics (at least through Calculus), but who presently lack the background needed to begin taking college-level math (MAT 1800). It is an intense program for students who have both the determination and the mathematical ability to excel. 

In a radical departure from the past, where students with great potential, but weak backgrounds, had no choice but to take remedial math (MAT 0995), PREP doesn't just provide adequate preparation for MAT 1800.  It provides students with a solid foundation for all Calculus and leads to the Department of Mathematics honors program, known as the Emerging Scholars Program. 

PREP Destroys Two Myths

  • Myth #1:  Students who fail to qualify for Pre-calculus do not have the mathematical ability to become Engineers or Scientists. 
  • Myth #2:  Students who fail to qualify for Pre-calculus can become Engineers or Scientists without making a major commitment in time and effort to learn mathematics. 

Main Principles of PREP

  • Commitment to excellence:  High standards, hard work, daily attendance and daily homework are expected of all participants.
  • Sense of community:  Group work and collaborative learning are key elements.

The Nuts and Bolts

  • PREP consists of taking the 7 credit version of MAT 1050 (the 5 credit version plus a 2 credit workshop).
  • MAT 1050 meets 1 hour per day, 5 days per week. 
  • Workshop meets 2 days per week for 2 hours each day.  The workshop is totally dedicated to problem solving with students working together in groups.

Who Should Take PREP? 

The more mathematics you need, the stronger your foundation must be.  All Engineering and Mathematics majors are expected to take PREP while students in Science or other majors who need to take at least 2 semesters of Calculus are very much encouraged to do so as well. 

The following shows a comparison of PREP students (those taking MAT 1050 and Workshop) and non-PREP students (those taking only MAT 1050) for the Fall, 1995 and Winter, 1996 semesters: 
    PREP             95 students     89% passed     75% A or B 
    Non-PREP   101 students     71% passed     52% A or B 

Last updated Fall 1997 

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