Science, Technology Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Free ALEKS Mathematics Subscription to Help Study Participants Prepare for the Mathematics MTEL

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is extending a pilot study to examine the potential benefits to teachers and teacher candidates of using a web-based tutorial program to support preparation for the General Curriculum (#03) Mathematics Subtest, Elementary (#53) or Middle School (#47) Mathematics MTEL. The following test dates are included in this pilot: September 25, 2010, November 20, 2010, March 5, 2011, May 14, 2011, and July 16, 2011. Study participants will receive a free subscription for up to three months to Assessment and Learning in Knowledge Spaces software, a web-based assessment and learning system. This pilot is available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

After an initial adaptive diagnostic assessment, ALEKS will provide each participant with a summary report that can guide the participant's use of the learning mode tutorial where the program provides detailed explanations, opportunities for practice, and tracks the mastery of concepts and skills. Please note that although the ALEKS system addresses some of the same content as the MTEL mathematics tests, it is not specifically designed for or aligned with the MTEL mathematics test objectives or test items.

Participants in the study will be asked to use ALEKS for a minimum of 10 hours, complete three surveys to document their experience, and register for and take the #03, #53 or #47 Mathematics MTEL. Although participants' MTEL and ALEKS results will be used as part of the study, data will be kept in strict confidentiality. No information that could be used to identify participants or their schools will be published in the study. For more information or to sign up for the study, please contact Meto Raha at mraha@doe.mass.edu or (781) 338-3548.