Cracking the Code

UT mathematics undergraduates in the calculus class of Dr. Uri Treisman. Credit: Damon Casarez.

Freshman calculus and organic chemistry are the kinds of courses that can send shudders up the spines of many undergraduates. Both classes are where students take some of their earliest intensive, college-level mathematics and science. Now a pair of distinguished teaching professors at The University of Texas at Austin are among those using research to ensure students’ experiences in early courses like these create a solid foundation on which to build future success in STEM.

Uri Treisman, a professor of mathematics and director of the Charles A. Dana Center, and David Laude, professor of chemistry, have developed effective formulas that weave rigor and support into UT students’ experiences. Their efforts are helping more students start strong, with strategies steeped in educational research and celebrated in a 2019 book, The Years that Matter Most: How College Makes or Breaks Us. So what’s in the formula?

Offer a reality check: Many students worry about not belonging in college. Faculty now help new undergraduates understand how common that concern is, plus the ways that university staff and faculty are here to help. All UT students receive targeted lessons in how early classroom difficulties tend to be temporary and how, with the frustration, comes eventual growth.

Keep the tough content intact: A key way Treisman and Laude show respect for their students is setting a high bar. Challenging students keeps them motivated, while preparing them for the future in these disciplines. Students learn they can be leaders, right from the start.

Create meaningful supports: Treisman and Laude have developed a suite of tactics to help students succeed, from study groups to keeping close tabs on students as individuals, and checking in with them regularly. All Natural Sciences first-year students are matched with small, learning communities. Many experience real-word learning, too, in programs like the Freshman Research Initiative and the Inventors Program. 

Listen to our podcast with more on what it takes for success in college or see a transcript at: txsci.net/utsuccess