Participation (Diagnosis + Prescription) = Resolution

This short paper will demonstrate how appropriate mathematical diagnosis followed by study support improves engineering students’ performance. Diagnostic testing of new undergraduates has become common in Higher Education Institutes (HEI) because of the need to identify a student’s mathematical ability early enough to ensure any deficiencies do not hinder progress. This is particularly true of students on engineering courses for whom a good standard and understanding of mathematics is crucial for successful completion. The awareness of ‘blockages’ is important for both the learner and teacher. This identification process is not as straightforward as it may first appear since many students will exhibit the same symptoms but actual prescription requires correct diagnosis and not simple identification…. Key issues identified: whole cohort should be assessed; testing at start of course; results fed back; no time pressure…