The COVID-19 pandemic is making teaching in-person on college campuses more complicated. But Missouri S&T instructors are stretching their imaginations to help students in classes such as calculus – a course that is fundamental to the degree programs of nearly 90% of S&T students.

Understanding calculus is essential for students who plan to work in the fields of engineering, science and economics, says Stephanie Fitch, teaching professor in mathematics and statistics at S&T. Fitch is teaching Calculus 1 (Math 1214) this semester along with Kelley Koob, assistant teaching professor in mathematics and statistics.

“It’s important that our lower-level calculus students, especially in their first year, have the opportunity to be taught in person for every class,” says Fitch. “Being able to interact with the instructor and other students is critical to their understanding, and it makes learning calculus more efficient and less frustrating.

“And in class, students form relationships that lead to outside involvements that can help their academic future – like study groups, research projects, and even scholarships and career opportunities. Many lasting friendships that begin in college often start in the classroom.”

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