Mathematics Support past, present and, most importantly, future

Duncan Lawson

Abstract


This article briefly reviews the development of mathematics support in higher education over the last 25 years, highlighting in particular the work of sigma, centre for excellence in university-wide mathematics and statistics support as a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and subsequently as part of the National HE STEM Programme. A description of sigmas current HEFCE-funded programme of activities is included, giving particular attention to the development of the sigma network. The article closes by focusing on the legacy of sigmas current work and the future sustainability of the sigma network.


Keywords


Mathematics support, centre for excellence, sustainability

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References


ACME (2011) Mathematical Needs: Mathematics in the workplace and in Higher Education, London: Royal Society.

Kyle, J. (2010) Affordability, Adaptability, Approachability and Sustainability, in C.M. Marr and M.J. Grove, eds. Responding to the Mathematics Problem: The Implementation of Institutional Support Mechanisms. Birmingham: Maths, Stats & OR Network, pp. 103-104.

Lawson, D., Halpin, M. and Croft, T. (2001) After the diagnostic test – what next? Evaluating and Enhancing the Effectiveness of Mathematics Support Centres, MSOR Connections, 1(3), pp. 19-23.

Lawson, D., Croft, T. and Halpin, M. (2003). Good Practice in the Provision of Mathematics Support Centres, 2nd edition. Birmingham: LTSN Maths, Stats & OR Network.

NAO (2007) Staying the course: The retention of students in higher education, London: The Stationery Office.

Perkin, G. and Croft, A.C. (2004) Mathematics support centres – the extent of current provision, MSOR Connections, 4(2), pp. 14-18.

Smith, A. (2004) Making Mathematics Count, London: The Stationery Office.

Tolley, H. and MacKenzie, H. (2015) Senior Management Perspectives on Mathematics and Statistics Support in Higher Education. Available via http://www.sigma-network.ac.uk/resources/evaluation/ (last accessed 28 May 2015).




DOI: https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v14i1.234

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