The Basic Skills (Applied) Mathematics program is a developmental approach to basic skills with a primary focus on problem solving. Each student's diagnosis evaluates computational skills, mathematical behavior, and reasoning ability. Lectures are combined with individualized laboratory instruction in order to provide the non-judgmental, supportive environment necessary for students to achieve competency.
Students in the Basic Skills (Applied) Mathematics program progress through skill inventories, skill instruction, skill practice, practice tests, and finally mastery tests. The instructors provide individual diagnosis, prescription and pre/post standardized testing. The topics included in the Basic Skills (Applied) Mathematics curriculum are: whole numbers, proportions, measurements, problem solving, fractions, decimals, percents, and graphs and charts.
The Prealgebra course and laboratory are structured to help students bridge the gap between arithmetic and algebra. Arithmetic topics are reviewed and refined, and beginning algebra topics and vocabulary are introduced. Students have access to the laboratory, where they can receive individual diagnosis and help. The topics included in the prealgebra curriculum are: whole numbers and variables, integers, first degree equations, fractions, decimals, graphs, proportions, and percents.