9352656 Quint This project is enabling the Ventura College Mathematics Department to establish a computer laboratory classroom whose main purpose is to improve students' understanding of the major underlying concepts in precalculus and calculus. The mathematics faculty recognizes the need to utilize a computer algebra system in these courses so that students spend less time manipulating symbols and more time clarifying and visualizing mathematical principles. The center is serving as a classroom for weekly precalculus-calculus sessions. It is also serving as the location of weekly supplementary courses for precalculus-calculus enrichment. Finally, it is available to students outside of class for completing homework assignments and for attempting to find answers to their own independent questions. Students are improving their communication skills as they work together in the laboratory/classroom setting and as they integrate prose and mathematical output into their assignments. ***
