sigma - A Network Working!

摘要

During the 1990s, the phrase the mathematics problem' came into common usage to describe the mismatch between the mathematical competencies of incoming undergraduates and those expected for the study of a range of disciplines in higher education. This prompted the establishment of a number of mathematics support centres. A strong community of practice in mathematics support has developed, primarily around sigma, a Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) designated Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning with later impetus coming through funding from the National HE STEM Programme and leading to the formation of the sigma Network.1 Most recently further impetus has come through HEFCE Strategically Important and Vulnerable Subjects (SIVS) funding to consolidate and develop the network. In this article we review the development of mathematics support provision, the growth of a community of practice and the strengthening of the network. We demonstrate that sigma today represents a vibrant and active community supporting and enhancing the experience of thousands of university students.