Algebra Essentials: Tools for Success in Precalculus and Beyond
Faculty/Staff: Iain Pardoe
Platform: WordPress
Site link (if applicable): https://algebraessentials.trubox.ca/ [COMING SOON!]
Services provided: Video transcripts/ closed captioning (recording and editing by OLMedia), WordPress site development, H5P support, accessibility
Description: TRU Open Press is excited to support Iain in developing an engaging Open Educational Resource featuring a series of short instructional lightboard videos that will demystify essential algebra topics for first-year university students. With a vision inspired by Natasha Ramroop Singh’s project, “Essential Chemistry for Biologists: Decoding the Language of Life,” Iain has recorded and produced 20 videos covering vital concepts such as fractions, exponents, roots, polynomials, rational expressions, linear and quadratic equations, and inequalities. Videos will soon be available as a playlist on our Open Press YouTube channel as well, broadening their reach and impact. We’re excited to contribute to Iain’s goal of helping students build a solid mathematical foundation for their academic success!
Impact Summary
- Used in course(s): Math 1000 (Precalculus) and Math 1001 (Precalculus – Open Learning)
- When: Ongoing, starting upon resource completion
- Estimated number of students using textbook(s): Approximately 300 students per year (150 per section in OL, plus additional on-campus sections)
- Average price of textbook replaced: N/A (This resource supplements existing OER textbooks rather than replacing a commercial textbook)
- The average price of a math-related textbook in Canada typically ranges from $100 to $150 depending on format (print or ebook) and publisher – we are using a modest estimate of $100 for a high-quality textbook, featuring accessibility and engaging components such as videos, graphics, and interactive H5P activity components.
- Estimated savings: $100 x 300 students = $3000
- Note: Since this resource supplements rather than replaces an existing textbook, direct cost savings may not apply, but it is expected to enhance student achievement and provide additional free learning support for first-year math students at TRU and beyond.
