Mathematics in ATE Programs

A working draft of resources and reports from an NSF-sponsored project intended to strengthen the role of mathematics in Advanced Technological Education (ATE) programs. Intended as a resource for ATE faculty and members of the mathematical community. Comments are welcome by e-mail to the project directors: Susan L. Forman or Lynn A. Steen.

"We face not only a new century, but a new economy. It is an economy driven by information, research, and technology, an economy that values skills and productivity above all else, an economy that holds out the promise of a better life for all Americans. This means the next generation must be the best educated in American history."
-- Vice President Al Gore, 21st Century Skills for 21st Century Jobs

In response to an urgent national need for highly qualified technicians, in 1994 the National Science Foundation established a major effort to provide support for innovative programs in Advanced Technological Education (ATE), especially in the nation's two-year and community colleges. Mathematics, itself in the midst of a major reform effort, is an important but often overlooked component of virtually all ATE programs. This site is intended to highlight the role of mathematics in ATE programs by:

Documenting the critical role mathematics plays in ATE areas.
Illustrating important and challenging mathematics found in ATE programs.
Emphasizing the need to include high-level mathematics in ATE programs.
Encouraging the kind of broad mathematics education that students will need to succeed in modern technological fields.
Stimulating discussion about the role of mathematics in ATE programs.

Mathematics plays an important role in helping meet the national need for a technically trained work force. An inventory of issues and impediments reveals the scope of the challenge that must be met if mathematics is to fulfill this role, while guidance is provided by principles of best practice, common pitfalls to avoid, and mathematical skills required by ATE programs.

Several case studies illustrate how ATE projects push the envelop of mathematical applications by using mathematics in new and different ways as well as in emerging areas of applications. Observations from the world of work provide perspective on the special mathematical expectations of business and industry, suggesting issues in pedagogy that are especially crucial for ATE programs.

Finally, a list of on-line references provides links to web sites where further information is available, and a database of people offers contact information.

Supported by the Advanced Technological Educaiton (ATE) program at the National Science Foundation. Opinions and information on this site are those of the authors and do not represent the views of either the ATE program or the National Science Foundation.