Effectiveness of an online homework system in a career college mathematics class

Abstract

This study investigated the impact the online homework system MyLabsPlus (MLP) had on student success in Introductory Algebra at a career college. Seventy-four students from five classrooms at the same campus participated in this study. The participants??? beginning mathematics skills were assessed upon admission to the college. The results of the pre-assessment, grades and attendance were recorded for five Introductory Algebra classes. These classes were taught by four different instructors. Results demonstrated no statistical difference in final course grades between students using MLP homework and students using textbook homework even when controlling for beginning mathematics skills and attendance. Discussions of why MLP was not more effective and recommendations for further research are included