Okay, it’s a hokey start, but it points to something actually important. The QEP Proposal submission is Gateways to Excellence in Math and Science (GEMS, get it?). So, what is GEMS all about?

Improving student achievement in, initially at least, freshman calculus and chemistry classes is a primary focus of the GEMS initiative. That said, the proposal focuses on dedicated space for a quasi-lab to support supplemental and peer instruction as well as computer-aided instruction for calculus and gen-chem, starting in fall 2008. Okay, maybe that’s not “the” focus. Maybe the focus is on course realignment and supplemental instruction and peer-led instruction and a host of other elements–all of which, in tandem, should provide a strong and supportive foundation to students in calculus and chemistry sections.

So, if you want to learn a bit more, go to http://www.utdallas.edu/GEMS. While you’re there, play the GEMS game for a shot at an Ipod Shuffle–and read more about the project.

It’ll do you good!

You’ll find a glossary of terms will be included in the UTD/SACS web site. [Once it's up, we'll add the link here and change some verb tenses.] What you may not find is the specific set of terms about which you want more information. If that is the case, please feel free to add a comment here and suggest that new terms be added to the glossary — or even provide alternate definitions for terms already included. The glossary is supposed to be there to help all members of the UTD community work through this reaffirmation process. Your help will be greatly appreciated.