Preparing Students for Success Program
(PSSP)
The University of Holy Cross offers developmental (pre-college) courses in reading, English, and math. Developmental courses are offered in the fall and spring semesters.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
In keeping with our Mission, the University of Holy Cross Preparing Students for Success Program (PSSP) offers holistic support for underprepared students through developmentally appropriate placement, courses, and resources. It is located in the Center for Teaching and Learning. The PSSP was first implemented in the Fall Semester of 2009. It is a direct result of the Quality Enhancement Plan submitted to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in partial fulfillment of accreditation renewal in 2009. Engagement in the PSSP unites undergraduates in a community of learners. This experience helps students build relationships and skills that benefit them throughout their college careers.
The following PSSP courses help underprepared students acquire proficiencies needed for success in college: Introduction to College Success (ICS 100), Introduction to College English (ENG 100), Fundamentals of Mathematics (MAT 099), Introduction to College Algebra I (MAT 100A), Introduction to College Algebra II (MAT 100B), and Introduction to College Reading (REA 100).
Embedded in the PSSP are the services of trained advisors and tutors, the use of the Academic Skills Center and the Blaine S. Kern Library, as well as the services of the Thomas E. Chambers Counseling Center, the Office of Campus Ministry, and the Office of Student Life. Computer-assisted support is also available. Learning Express provides PSSP participants with unlimited electronic access to study guides, practice exams, and academic tutorials that enhance student success in college.
EXPECTED STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR THE PSSP
Upon successful completion of corresponding PSSP courses, at least 70% of students should be able to:
Demonstrate the reading skills (REA 100) necessary to function successfully in a college-level social science course, as measured by a final semester grade of C or higher in HIST 101, HIST 102, HIST 201, or HIST 202;
Demonstrate the writing skills (ENG 100) necessary to function successfully in a college-level English composition course, as measured by a final semester grade of C or higher in ENG 101;
Demonstrate the pre-college algebra mathematics skills (MAT 100A and MAT 100B) necessary to function successfully in college-level algebra, as measured by a final semester grade of C or higher in MAT 105;
Demonstrate the prerequisite basic mathematics skills (MAT 099) necessary to function successfully in a pre-college algebra course, as measured by a final semester grade of C or higher in MAT 100A or MAT 100B;
Demonstrate the personal, technical, and social skills (ICS 100) necessary to function successfully in undergraduate college-level courses, as measured by a student satisfaction survey.
ACADEMIC CREDITS
Credit hours earned upon successful completion of ENG 100, ICS 100, MAT 100A, MAT 100B, and REA 100 do not satisfy general education requirements but may be applicable toward completion of degree programs, where appropriate. Successful completion of ENG 100, ICS 100, MAT 100A, MAT 100B, and REA 100 is defined as earning a final semester grade of C or higher.
Credits earned upon successful completion of MAT 099 do not satisfy general education requirements and are not applicable to any program. Successful completion of MAT 099 is defined as earning a final semester grade of P on a PASS/FAIL CREDIT scale.
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CREDITS
Students enrolled in PSSP courses may take a maximum of thirteen credit hours per semester.
REPEATING COURSES
Students may spend one semester or a maximum of two semesters in ENG 100, ICS 100, MAT 100A, MAT 100B, or REA 100. If a student is unsuccessful in completing MAT 099 for a second time, he/she will receive a final semester grade of F. PSSP courses not successfully completed within the allotted time place the student in academic suspension for one full year, including the summer term.
CURRICULA
| ENG 100 | Introduction to College English (3 credit hours) prepares students for success in college writing in English Composition I (ENG 101). Students build college-level writing skills through application of the conventions of English grammar, use of the stages of the writing process, and critical thinking skills. Extensive writing practice, cooperative grouping, prompt feedback, and computer-assisted instruction facilitate student learning. |
| ICS 100 | Introduction to College Success (1 credit hour) prepares students for effective integration into the college environment. This course includes a mandatory campus involvement component, which may include service learning. ICS 100 is required of all students who are placed into one or more PSSP courses. Through a community of learners, undergraduates acquire the personal, technical, and social skills that support college success. Topics include campus resources, learning styles, study skills, time management, library skills, test-taking skills, the mission and history of the University, and the Marianite core values. Two individual counseling sessions per student are embedded in the course. Students are encouraged to think critically as they set academic, personal and/or career goals. |
| MAT 099 | Fundamentals of Mathematics (3 credit hours) prepares students for success in Introduction to College Algebra I (MAT 100A). This course encourages students to think critically as they comprehend and apply mathematical concepts. Students review basic computational skills and mathematical concepts in preparation for MAT 100A. Instructional techniques that include pre and post testing, direct instruction, guided practice, continuous assessment, and computer-assisted learning aid students in building fundamental mathematical skills. |
| MAT 100A | Introduction to College Algebra I (3 credit hours) prepares students for success in Introduction to College Algebra II (MAT 100B). This course encourages students to think critically as they comprehend and apply mathematical concepts. Depending on placement scores, it may be taken independently or as part of a three-semester sequence of MAT 099, MAT 100A, and MAT 100B. Instructional techniques that include pre and post testing, direct instruction, guided practice, continuous assessment, and computer-assisted learning aid students in building mathematical skills. |
| MAT 100B |
Introduction to College Algebra II (3 credit hours) prepares students for success in college algebra (MAT 105). This course encourages students to think critically as they comprehend and apply mathematical concepts. Students review pre-college algebra skills and mathematical concepts in preparation for College Algebra (MAT 105). Instructional techniques that include pre and post testing, direct instruction, guided practice, continuous assessment, and computer-assisted learning aid students in building mathematical skills. |
| REA 100 |
Introduction to College Reading (3 credit hours) prepares students for success in college reading in a social science course (HIST 101, 102, 201, or 202). It assists students in improving their vocabulary, comprehension, reading rate, and fluency. Topics include the foundations of reading, dictionary skills, word origins, multiple meanings, word elements, context clues, idioms, and critical thinking and comprehension. Pre and post testing, differentiated assignments, collaborative projects, reflective journaling, and computer-assisted instruction aid in the instructional process. |
