High school calculus has long been considered the gold standard for college admissions offices, particularly at highly selective institutions, even though few colleges actually require the course. The emphasis on calculus is problematic given racial and socioeconomic disparities in access to high school calculus. The pattern also can lead colleges to de-emphasize other important and rigorous math content that is essential in our data-driven world.
The drawbacks of this reliance on calculus, and new approaches for a more equitable college admissions process were explored in a recent webinar by the National Association for College Admission Counseling and Just Equations.
The webinar highlighted findings from The Limits of Calculus: Revisiting the Role of Math Education in College Admissions, a report by Just Equations in collaboration with NACAC. The discussion included the disconnect between the emphasis on calculus in college admissions and the real-world relevance of data science and statistics courses. Participants also examined the educational and legal ramifications of continuing to emphasize courses like calculus that aren’t available or accessible to all students.
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