Western math instructors Larry Huntzinger and
Celia Nippert and their students participated in a nationwide
pilot of PLATO Academic Systems Algebra program. The instructors
were frequently monitored and their input solicited as the PLATO
company finalized their implementation of the computerized
software lab. Huntzinger’s comments were then used in a national
publication as PLATO began publicity efforts in print and
online.
Western Oklahoma State College students use Academic Systems
Algebra in three distinct implementation models. Some students
enroll in a traditional time on-campus course, which
incorporates computer-based activities and quizzes.
Others enroll in blended-instruction classes that use Academic
Systems Algebra in a lab setting with instructor guidance and
limited lecture throughout the entire term.
Finally, remaining students participate in a completely
self-directed, Internet-based class, engaging an instructor only
as needed.
This distance-learning option is the most popular with busy
commuter students. Student athletes, as well as other students
who spend large amounts of time representing the college, take
advantage of the courses delivered in an electronic format, as
it offers the more flexibility in completing their work from
home on evenings or weekends.
"The best part about our Academic Systems implementation is that
I get to spend more one-on-one time with students," said
Huntzinger. "They can dig deeper into the material and work at
their own pace, but if they miss a day of class or are having
difficulty with a particular concept, it’s easy for me to sit
down with them and say ‘where are you having trouble’ and
address student needs directly, in real time."
According to Huntzinger, another advantage of Academic Systems
Algebra is the software’s excellent organizational model. Where
other software solutions require students to "jump around" to
different areas of the instruction—skipping key sequences needed
for subject mastery—instructors using Academic Systems Algebra
can assign sequential courseware in "blocks" that augment
students’ ongoing successes. "unlike our old system, I don’t
have trouble keeping track of who was doing what coursework,"
said Huntzinger. "Now I know students are getting better
instruction while keeping better track of their progress. They
can’t get lost moving back and forth between lessons."
With Web-based instruction and distance learning becoming
popular options at Western Oklahoma,
Academic Systems Algebra is extremely useful as an instructional
tool. The college has hundreds of distance learning students,
many of whom are serving in the armed forces, as well as many
adult learners who are changing careers.
"Many companies are now using computer-aided learning to train
new employees," said Huntzinger. "Academic Systems Algebra helps
teach students of any age how to teach themselves using
computerized instruction. I tell my students that they have to
be in charge of their own learning, and it’s very empowering for
them to realize their goals using the software."
