Mathematics and Computer Science

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards for School Mathematics call for a shift in emphasis from a curriculum dominated by memorization of isolated facts and procedures to one that emphasizes conceptual understanding, multiple representations and connections, mathematical modeling, mathematical problem solving, technology and alternative assessments. The ASMSA mathematics program is designed to aid students in this transition.

Some of the diversified experiences include alternative assessments such as presentations, group learning, and data collection using technology. Further use of technology includes the Excel, Geometer’s Sketchpad, Smartboards, Minitab and R, Maple, or Graphical Analysis. Many classes also use the LaTeX typesetting language.

The ASMSA Mathematical experience also includes communication through the written word, oral interactions, and electronic media.

The computer science division focuses on preparing students for university studies in computing-related fields and on teaching essential computing skills to students not intending a career in the field. ASMSA offers course work that follows curriculum recommendations for high schools as well as college level computing studies as proposed by a joint task force of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Programming courses are offered in the Java, PHP, and python languages. Many courses are eligible for concurrent enrollment credit. Extracurricular activities available to students include Collegiate Programming Contests, High School Programming Contest, Botball Robotics Contest, Math Modeling, and a Student Chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery.

The mathematics and computer science faculty is available on a regular basis for student tutoring and advising.