At American University, there is a mathematics requirement in the general education program. The lowest level course that satisfies this requirement is Finite Mathematics. We are in the process of designing a new approach to Finite Mathematics. This presentation will concern the use of Mathwright to develop laboratory activities for the new course.

The students for this course generally have poor algebra skills and apathy or antipathy toward mathematics. Motivating and interesting these students is an important aspect of the instructional task. One of the ways we are attempting to address these issues is through the use of interactive mathematics activities. We are using Mathwright to create the computer modules that provide these activities.

Two types of Mathwright modules will be discussed: general utility modules for graphing, finding least squares lines, and so forth, and modules with a specific instructional goal. We will emphasize the ease of using Mathwright to create highly structured interactive modules tailored to our unique educational needs.

Dan Kalman, American University