A calculus E-learning system for first-year university students with diverse mathematics background

Abstract

First-year science majors at the University of Hong Kong have different levels of proficiency in mathematics, with a significant proportion lacking the necessary calculus background for a compulsory first-year science course. A supplementary calculus e-learning platform was implemented so that students lacking the prerequisite background could gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Participation in the e-learning platform was voluntary. An analysis of the results showed that, among students lacking the prerequisite background, a high usage of the e-learning platform is associated with higher post-test scores. The high-usage students were also able to perform as well as students with the prerequisite background in the post-test.