The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa) has taken significant strides in enhancing student success in mathematics through its innovative Learning Assistant (LA) Program, especially with the recent incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into its curriculum. This dual approach not only supports student learning but also prepares them for a future where technology plays an essential role in education and professional fields.
### The Impact of Learning Assistants
The LA Program has gained momentum, currently deploying over 40 trained LAs each semester to support various math courses. Their role has been particularly pivotal in Math 134: Precalculus Elementary Functions, where student enrollment has surged, leading to the course being offered in 11 different sections. This rise in enrollment reflects the growing interest in mathematics and the effectiveness of the learning assistant model.
Analysis of the program’s performance over recent semesters reveals that sections staffed with two LAs consistently yield final exam scores that are approximately 12 percentage points higher than those supported by a single LA. This is indicative of the enhanced instructional support that co-LAs provide to students. As the LA program has evolved, improvements in the passing rates for Math 134 have increased by about 10 percentage points, while student withdrawal rates have significantly decreased.
John Robertson, an instructor and precalculus coordinator at UH Mānoa, emphasizes that the success of the program stems from the LAs’ unique contributions. Their energy, innovative approaches, and peer perspectives create a dynamic learning environment that fosters student engagement and understanding.
### AI Curriculum Integration
In parallel with the successes of the LA Program, UH Mānoa has introduced an AI component into its mathematics curriculum, notably within Math 100: Survey of Mathematics. Beginning in fall 2025, the course included a dedicated unit that explores AI systems, such as large language models like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. This initiative is part of UH’s broader goal of integrating AI into various academic disciplines.
The inclusion of AI aims to equip students with the ability to effectively utilize these advanced tools while maintaining critical thinking skills. The curriculum encourages students to evaluate, question, and refine their approaches to problem-solving in ways that are relevant to real-world applications. For instance, activities such as analyzing tsunami predictions and evaluating local water quality empower students to confront pressing issues in their communities through a mathematical lens.
Dipshay Reddy, a math LA, shares that his experience has not only solidified his knowledge of mathematics but has also provided him with valuable skills in using AI tools. The training for LAs is ongoing and extensive, focusing on deepening their understanding of AI technologies and how to assist their peers in utilizing them effectively.
### Skill Development and Future Preparedness
The integration of AI within the mathematics syllabus is not merely about understanding technology; it is about preparing students for a future where technology and mathematics are intertwined. This initiative prepares undergraduates to navigate the complexities that arise from incorporating AI into education and professional environments.
Moreover, the practical applications of AI in mathematics, as discussed in collaborative learning settings, emphasize the importance of precision and critical reasoning. Camila Gonzalez, a student in the program, highlights the significance of clarity in communication when interacting with AI systems. This underscores a vital point: as students learn to leverage technology, they must also develop the precision and critical thinking required to utilize these tools effectively.
### A Model for Future Innovations in Education
The success of UH Mānoa’s LA Program, along with the innovative AI curriculum, presents a model that could inspire similar initiatives at other academic institutions. This program demonstrates that dedicated support systems, like LAs, can significantly enhance student engagement and success in challenging subjects like mathematics.
The relatively low cost of implementing the LA Program has made it feasible to extend its benefits to thousands of students annually. As noted by Professor Monique Chyba, the program’s impact goes beyond immediate classroom success; it prepares a new generation of students to not just respond to technological advancements but to actively shape the future of educational practices.
### Conclusion
The dual focus on peer-assistant learning and the integration of AI into UH Mānoa’s mathematics curriculum reflects a forward-thinking approach to education. By strengthening student success and preparing undergraduates for the future, the university is setting a precedent for how mathematics education can evolve in the era of technology. As institutions worldwide continue to grapple with the integration of AI, UH Mānoa stands out as a beacon of progress, offering valuable insights and methodologies that can enhance student learning experiences across disciplines.
The habilitation of innovative educational models like the LA Program and AI curriculum will likely yield benefits that extend far beyond the university, shaping the landscape of mathematics education and its intersection with technology for years to come.
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