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Chappelle Dissertation FINAL DRAFT 12.22.25
Embargoed Access, Embargo ends: 02/26/2027
Dissertation
Undergraduate Students’ Perspectives and Experiences in Introductory Mathematics Courses
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
2025
Abstract
This study explored the mathematics learning experiences of students enrolled in developmental mathematics courses at a 4-year research-focused university. Developmental mathematics (DM) courses carry the persistent phenomenon that many undergraduates face: disproportionately high rates of students failing or withdrawing from these courses. Research from the last few decades indicate high drop, fail, and withdrawal rates for students enrolled in DM courses with the highest numbers coming from marginalized groups (e.g., students of color, women, and/or first-generation college students). The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore a DM class and investigate students' perspectives and experiences with the course design, course structure, past mathematics experiences, perceptions, and the Math 100 classroom community. Data collection included surveys of 30 students enrolled in two sections of Math 100, student interviews with eight participants, and class observations. I used qualitative methods of data analysis including survey item analysis both within an individual survey and across surveys, coding of interview transcripts, and thematic evaluation of student coursework. Findings indicate that students often described their past mathematics experiences as negative, marked by uncertainty, doubt, and aversion. In contrast, perceptions of the DM course varied across areas such as mathematical orientation, motivation, confidence, anxiety, engagement, and attitudes toward mistakes. Notably, all students consistently described the instructor as supportive, approachable, and key to creating a more constructive learning environment. I conclude with a discussion of findings on students' perspectives in a DM course, along with implications and recommendations for instructors, administrators, students, and researchers.
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Details
- Title
- Undergraduate Students’ Perspectives and Experiences in Introductory Mathematics Courses
- Creators
- Candace Mae Chappelle
- Contributors
- Amy Roth McDuffie (Advisor)Chad M Gotch (Committee Member)Molly L Kelton (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Department of Teaching and Learning
- Theses and Dissertations
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 437
- Identifiers
- 99901356973801842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Dissertation