Environmental Mathematics

Mimi E. Lam - Mathematician/Educational Consultant

mlam@nwic.edu

Roberto Gonzales-Plaza - Mathematician/Scientist

rgonzalez@nwic.edu

Northwest Indian College

Rational

100% of incoming NWIC students test below Math 99, Intermediate Algebra
Two simultaneous approaches:
Remedial work integrated within college-level courses
Design conceptual, experiential math course to promote quantitative literacy consistent with personal identity of students

Principles of Educational Layers

§Research: paid math & bio research projects satisfying graduation requirements (laboratory, internships, special topics)
§Integration: math contextualized in relevant, experiential biology exercises highlighting environmental math
§Modify Curriculum: shift focus from algebraic rigor to conceptual math as a practical life tool