In another step forward for differentiated instruction, Carnegie Learning reports that Hazelwood School District, near St. Louis, Missouri, has purchased Carnegie Learning Bridge to Algebra textbooks and software for 900 ninth grade students in the District’s three high schools.
The program is designed to prepare high school students who lack the prerequisites necessary for Algebra I, and can also be implemented with advanced middle school students.
“Our goal is to graduate each of our students prepared to compete professionally or in continuing education,” said Cathy French, Math Coordinator for Hazelwood School District. “We evaluated several math programs and found that Carnegie Learning provided the engaging, real-world application of concepts that we believe will motivate our students to get excited about math and be successful in higher-level math courses required for graduation.”
Based upon an artificial intelligence model, the Cognitive Tutor Software incorporates ongoing formative and summative assessments that individualize and differentiate instruction based upon students’ prior knowledge and needs.
In other words, it identifies weaknesses in each individual student’s mastery of mathematical concepts. Then, the software customizes prompts to focus on areas where the student is struggling, and sends the student to new problems that address those specific concepts.
Carnegie Learning curricula and research have received international recognition from several industry organizations this year. In May 2009, Carnegie Learning® Adaptive Math Software won a CODiE Award from the Software & Information Industry Association as Best Mathematics Instructional Solution. Also in May 2009 Carnegie Learning, Inc. received a Best in Tech Award for the 2008–2009 school year from Scholastic Administrator Magazine.
