# Collaborative Research: Elevating the Calculus Standard of Care Through an Innovative Collaborative Testbed

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · Florida International University (FL) · $1,445,726

## Abstract

This Level 3 IUSE project, a collaborative effort between Florida International University (FIU), California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), Clark College (CC), and the University of Virginia (UVA), aims to improve teaching and learning in introductory calculus courses. Specifically, the project adapts and implements the Modeling Practices in Calculus (MPC) approach, which has been shown to significantly improve learning and success for a broad collection of Calculus I students at FIU. At the core of MPC is the opportunity for students to work cooperatively and discuss key mathematical ideas in a face-to-face, small group setting.  The curriculum engages students in the practices of mathematicians, supports students argumentation, and builds important mathematical reasoning and communication skills. This project implements MPC at multiple sites across two overlapping phases, first facilitating adoption and implementation at CSUSM, CC, and UVA, and then identifying three additional partner sites that will join the project in its second year.  

Calculus remains a key course for many STEM degree programs and can represent a bottleneck for many students. This project uses evidence-based teaching and engagement practices to provide an enriching, collaborative learning environment that has potential to improve student learning and outcomes, thereby increasing the number of students successfully completing STEM degrees in multiple areas of national importance. Project resear

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2439635
- **Awardee organization:** Florida International University (FL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** Q3KCVK5S9CP1
- **PI:** Laird H Kramer
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** Improv Undergrad STEM Ed(IUSE), UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT
- **Estimated total:** $1,445,726
- **Funds obligated:** $1,445,726
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 10/01/2025 → 09/30/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2439635

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2439635, Collaborative Research: Elevating the Calculus Standard of Care Through an Innovative Collaborative Testbed. Retrieved via MORVS 2026-10-30 from https://api.morvs.ai/grant/nsf/2439635. Licensed CC0.

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