Planning a course takes time, finding high-quality instructional materials shouldn’t. The Instructor Resource Library brings together free, ready-to-use teaching resources organized by course and accessible directly from your Hawkes Learning Teach account. Everything is designed to support your instruction, reinforce mastery-based learning, and save you valuable prep time. Whether you’re building a lecture, planning an activity, or looking for ways to strengthen student engagement, these resources are already aligned to your course and ready when you need them. What You’ll Find in the Instructor Resource Library Each resource is created to be flexible, practical, and easy to integrate into your existing course, no extra setup required. Lecture PowerPoints Editable slide decks aligned to Hawkes course content help you structure lectures quickly and confidently. Use them as-is or customize to match your teaching style, pacing, and classroom priorities. Downloadable Projects Real-world, application-based projects give students opportunities to practice concepts beyond routine problem sets. These assignments are designed to encourage deeper understanding, collaboration, and transferable skills. Group Activities Low-stakes, interactive activities support peer learning and discussion whether in class or online. These resources help students talk through concepts, learn from one another, and stay actively engaged. Critical Thinking & Reflection Questions Thought-provoking prompts help students connect course material to practical scenarios, explain their reasoning, and reflect on their learning process supporting both mastery and metacognition. Why Instructors Use the Instructor Resource Library Saves time by reducing prep and content creation Supports mastery-based learning with aligned materials Fits naturally into your course—nothing extra to manage Free and included with your Hawkes course access The goal is simple: help you teach with confidence, using resources that feel like they already belong in your classroom. How to Access Instructor Resources Getting started takes just a few clicks: Log into your Hawkes Learning Teach account Select your course from the Courses Overview page Open the Help dropdown in the left-hand menu Choose Instructor Resources That’s it! No additional setup. No extra cost. Frequently Asked Questions Are Instructor Resources free? Yes. All Instructor Resources are included at no additional cost with Hawkes course access. Do I need to integrate anything new into my LMS? No. Resources are accessed directly through your Teach account and designed to fit seamlessly into your existing course structure. Can I edit or customize the materials? Yes. Many resources, including PowerPoints and projects, are fully editable so you can adapt them to your teaching style. Additional Free Teaching Tools: Companion Websites In addition to the Instructor Resource Library, Hawkes also offers Companion Websites. These convenient, course‑specific resource hubs support both instructors and students with ancillaries like: Free technology guides and data sets Student-facing Chapter Project downloads Helpful links and supplemental materials Verified Quizlet sets aligned to your Hawkes content Companion Websites are currently available for: Viewing Life Mathematically Calculus Economics Psychology Statistics Sociology Biology English
February 9, 2026
Planning a course takes time, finding high-quality instructional materials...
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Managing multiple instructors and student sections can be challenging, but Hawkes Learning makes it easier with Course Administrator access. As a Course Administrator, you have full control and access to: All instructor section settings All student settings and grade data The ability to update grades manually for any student The ability to add new instructors to Hawkes With these permissions, administrators can ensure courses are properly set up, assignments are aligned, and instructors have what they need to succeed. Here’s a closer look at the features that make course management smoother with step-by-step instructions on key processes. Adding New Instructors → Watch the Video Tutorial: Adding New Instructor, Permissions Explained, & Sending Course Invitation As a Course Administrator, navigate to Tools > Manage Instructors. Select Add Instructor. Enter the new instructor’s first name, last name, email address, select their role, and click Save. Once added to the course, the instructor will receive a course invitation email with steps to create their Hawkes Teach account and add the course to their Dashboard. If a newly added instructor cannot locate the invitation email, the Course Administrator can resend it by selecting the instructor, clicking Actions, and choosing Send Invitation Email. Creating & Configuring Sections for Instructors from a Templated Section → Watch the Video Tutorial: Using a Templated Section to Push Out for Instructors If you have an existing, templated section with assignments and settings already assigned and would like to use it to copy out to other instructors, follow these steps. Navigate to Tools > Manage Sections. Click on Add Section and use the dropdown to select the instructor for whom you’re creating the section for. Enter the request details: section name, section start date, section end date, meeting times (optional) and section visibility. Click Save or Save and Add Another if needing to repeat for another instructor. Once the section is created for the instructor, you can configure the settings to copy assignments and settings from the templated section. Configuring Section Settings Select the new sections by clicking the box next to the instructor(s) name and section(s). Click Actions and Configure Section. Select the templated section you want to copy settings from using the “Apply From” dropdown. Click Apply Settings to push out the configuration. Making a Templated Section Available for Instructors to Copy & Create Their Own → Watch the Video Tutorial: Making a Templated Section Available for Instructors to Copy Create the Templated Section. Navigate to Tools > Manage Sections. Select the Templated Section, Actions, and Manage Facilitators Share the Templated Section. Select "All Facilitators" to include all instructors, or choose specific individuals. Click Submit to push the section to each selected instructor's Teach accounts. Mark the templated section as "Inactive" using the "Visibility" column. October 2025 Update: Course Admins now experience an updated "Manage Sections" Simply toggle on "Manage Section Templates" as highlighted in the screenshot below to see all templates tied to a section in one place. From here, updates can be made directly, allowing you to ensure accuracy and save time. Self-Help PDFs Explore printable directions and more guidance with Course Admin permissions below. Course Administrator – Creating Sections for Instructors from Templated Section.pdf Course Coordinator – How to Add a New Instructor.pdf Course Coordinator- Making Templated Section Available for Instructors to Copy.pdf Platform Roles and Permissions.pdf
February 6, 2026
Managing multiple instructors and student sections can be challenging, but...
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We're excited to announce the launch of the 7th Edition of Introductory Algebra by D. Franklin Wright! Designed to help students build a strong foundation in algebraic concepts, the 7th edition expands its focus on real-world applications, expanded practice opportunities, and updated content, while maintaining a streamlined structure ideal for a single-semester Introductory Algebra course. With newly developed exercises, application-based chapter projects, and enhanced courseware, this edition supports a seamless transition from prealgebra to algebra. What’s New in the Introductory Algebra 7th Edition The 7th edition introduces new content and a streamlined table of contents to improve organization and pacing, while continuing to support the foundational topics instructors expect in a single-semester Introductory Algebra course. New in this Edition: New Chapter: Strategies for Academic Success New Chapter: Geometry and Statistics New Lesson: Least Common Multiple of Polynomials These additions complement core algebra topics such as solving linear equations and inequalities, exponents and polynomials, rational expressions, and quadratic equations, ensuring comprehensive coverage with added flexibility and relevance. Explore the Full Table of Contents Expanded Practice & Assessment Questions To support diverse learning preferences and create more opportunities for skill development, Courseware exercises have been significantly expanded. What's New in the Courseware Question Bank: 1,500+ new questions added 300 application-based questions (a 149% increase from the previous edition) 84 specific to the Strategies for Academic Success chapter With these additions, the 7th edition now includes over 3,300 courseware questions—a 92% increase from the previous edition! New Features More Ways to Connect Algebra to Everyday Life and Work Building on prior real-world applications, the 7th edition places a stronger emphasis on relevance—introducing brand new chapter projects and expanding opportunities for students to apply algebra to everyday situations, careers, and collaborative problem-solving. Real-World Connections & Collaborative Projects 22 ready-to-assign chapter projects (two per chapter) promote collaboration and connect mathematics to hands-on, real-world scenarios. “Connections” chapter openers link key concepts to everyday experiences, helping students answer the question, "Why do I need to know this math?" An expanded emphasis on applications helps develop real-world problem-solving skills. Learning Support for Immediate Practice and Confidence New Completion Examples guide students through concepts with partial solutions in the Courseware, reinforcing understanding and allowing students to quickly check their work. This approach reinforces learning and helps students build confidence as they progress. Improved Organization & New Instructional Content Updates in the 7th edition reflect feedback from instructors and students, with a focus on relevance, flexibility, and student success. A streamlined table of contents improves content flow, progression, and the overall student experience. New chapter: Strategies for Academic Success Covers time management, test-taking strategies, note-taking, and stress reduction to help students thrive in any math course New chapter: Geometry and Statistics Offers additional topics to give instructors more flexibility in their instruction and provide topics for deeper learning and skill-building New lesson: Least Common Multiple of Polynomials Updated examples and lesson content for modern relevance and improved clarity New and updated calculator instructions and formula tables Designed for Single-Semester Introductory Algebra Courses With a refined scope and sequence, the 7th edition further supports single-semester Introductory Algebra courses, helping instructors plan, pace, and assign content efficiently while preparing students for subsequent math topics. Want a Closer Look? Get Trial Access
January 26, 2026
We're excited to announce the launch of the 7th Edition of Introductory Algebra...
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Creating a corequisite course can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools, you can build a learning experience that’s both structured and customizable, giving each learner the support they need without adding to your workload or taking away from valuable class time. That’s where Hawkes Learning shines. Built on a mastery-based framework, we combine diagnostics, personalized practice, and robust reporting to help instructors deliver equitable, effective learning experiences to each student. Hawkes uses data-driven diagnostics to individualize learning paths and provide targeted support to make learning more efficient. Here’s how: A Focus on Integrated Review & Prerequisite Skills Hawkes’ Integrated Review products organize prerequisite skill-building into structured review chapters that precede core Math and English content, giving students just-in-time access to foundational concepts before moving into the primary curriculum. With just-in-time remediation built directly into the learning experience, instructors can support skill development without adding extra materials, redesigning their syllabus, or slowing the pace of the course. Smarter Diagnostics for a Stronger Start “The diagnostic abilities of Hawkes are a game changer.” – Carrye Wilkins, Associate Director of the REACH Learning Center at the University of Louisville Every student brings a different level of foundational knowledge to class. Hawkes’ diagnostics help you identify and then bridge skill gaps by individualizing instruction. Make Remediation more Efficient With diagnostics, students can quickly place out of topics they already have mastered, allowing them to focus on the topics that need extra attention, making every study session more effective. Pre-created and Customizable Ready-to-use diagnostic tests give you a quick, accurate read on student readiness with the ability to edit, remove, or add questions to fit your unique course goals or standards. Insights at Multiple Levels Diagnostics are available at the course, chapter, and lesson levels, so you can gauge understanding across broad concepts or drill into specific skills. Shining a Spotlight on Efficiency One of the key pillars of Hawkes’ mastery approach is efficiency, helping students make the most of every learning moment. Instead of practicing without purpose or having to “re-prove” their understanding, these flexible pathways allow them to focus their time on intentional learning and meaningful progress. This quick video shows how the Diagnostic Tests in Hawkes’ platform customize lesson plans from the students’ perspective. Data That Drives Instruction So, you’ve individualized each student’s to-do list with the diagnostics tool—now what? Hawkes’ real-time reporting and analytics transform diagnostic results, time-on-task data, and performance trends into actionable insights, helping students stay on track, build confidence, and progress at their own pace. With Hawkes, you can: Monitor trends – Track individual and course-wide performance over time to spot early warning signs. Filter and customize reports – Apply built-in filters to focus on specific groups, objectives, or activities. Export results – Download data in formats that work for your department, institution, or personal tracking. Guide instruction efficiently – Use insights to prioritize teaching, intervene early, and support each student effectively. Additional Tools to Support Your Corequisite Success While Diagnostics and Reporting are the foundation, Hawkes offers a full suite of tools to make course setup, instruction, and student engagement easier, no matter your course model. Course Customization Custom Learn Screens: Integrate your own course materials, notes, hyperlinks, images, or YouTube videos. Flexible Assignment Grouping: Mix review and non-review assignments, exclude assignments from grades, adjust weights, and more. Course Management Roles, Permissions, and Manage Facilitators: Share responsibilities and streamline support by giving TAs, tutors, or co-instructors appropriate access levels. Export to Word: Download WebTests and Certify assignments to view offline, edit, create multiple versions, and print for in-person exams. Student Learning Support Academic Learning Aids: Students get immediate feedback and clarity from tools like AI Tutor right when they need it most without ever leaving the courseware. Designed for Equity, Built for Efficiency Corequisite teaching is all about giving students multiple paths to success, and Hawkes’ tools are designed to make that mission attainable. From just-in-time review and AI-powered tutoring to interactive lessons and unlimited mastery attempts, Hawkes ensures every learner gets the support they need succeed. Ready to see how Hawkes simplifies corequisite teaching? Explore Integrated Review Solutions
January 15, 2026
Creating a corequisite course can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools,...
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At Hawkes, instructor feedback is critical to guiding product enhancements. We actively seek input from educators and use those insights to guide updates that make a real difference in teaching and learning. In response to recent instructor feedback, we’ve added 283 new questions across 14 lessons in our Calculus courses—expanding both the quantity and quality of practice available to students. These new questions include: More lower-difficulty questions to help students build confidence Textbook-aligned exercises that integrate smoothly into existing courses Conceptual questions that emphasize reasoning, interpretation, and understanding For instructors, these additions offer more flexibility in homework and assessments while helping students engage more deeply with core calculus concepts. New Questions at a Glance Want to see what’s new and where these questions appear? Access the quick reference guide for your Calculus title below: Single Variable Calculus with Early Transcendentals, 2nd Edition See What's New → Calculus with Early Transcendentals, 2nd Edition See What's New → Calculus with Early Transcendentals Plus Integrated Review, 2nd Edition See What's New → Tips & Instructions for Incorporating These New Questions Which titles received the new questions? Single Variable Calculus with Early Transcendentals, 2nd Edition Calculus with Early Transcendentals, 2nd Edition Calculus with Early Transcendentals Plus Integrated Review, 2nd Edition Are serial numbers available for Hawkes instructors? Yes! Check out these quick reference guides for a breakdown of the latest questions in each title including what changed, corresponding lessons, and serial numbers. Are new questions automatically added to my assignments? New questions are not automatically added to the Hawkes Default Curriculum. You’ll need to take a few simple steps to incorporate them into your assignments or Custom Curriculum using the steps in the dropdown questions below. If you have any questions about this question bank expansion project or need help assigning them to your courses, our Customer Success Team is always available to help! Contact them any time at instructorsupport@hawkeslearning.com. How do I add these new questions to an existing assignment? In your instructor dashboard, select Assignments > Manage > WebTest. Select Manage in the top-right corner, then select the test name and Copy button. Select the Edit icon to the left of the copied test. Select “Default Curriculum” if you have not assigned the questions in a Custom Curriculum yet. Otherwise, select your Custom Curriculum. Select a Chapter, then Lesson from the left column. New questions will be labeled “New” and displayed towards the bottom of the left column as highlighted in the screenshot below. Select the +Add button to include the questions in your assessment. Be sure to Save your changes. How do I add these new questions to a custom curriculum? In your instructor dashboard, select Assignments > Manage > Curriculum. Select any course which has the Curriculum you would like to update assigned. Select a Lesson Name in the left column. New questions will be labeled “New” and displayed towards the bottom of the left column as highlighted in the screenshot below. Select the +Add button to include the questions in your Custom Curriculum. Be sure to Save your changes. We know that every new question is another opportunity for students to practice, build confidence, and make progress toward mastery. These updates reflect your feedback and our shared focus on student success. More enhancements are always on the roadmap, and we look forward to continuing to build alongside instructors like you!
January 14, 2026
At Hawkes, instructor feedback is critical to guiding product enhancements. We...
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Courses: Quantitative Reasoning, Elementary Statistics, Functions and Modeling, and Precalculus for ENG-PHYS-CS Course Type: Corequisite Math Pathways Quick Stats: The percentage of students completing college-level math in a single semester rose from 29% to an average of 73% per term, showing steady, lasting improvement. When surveyed, 100% of students enrolled in a lab (corequisite) course said it helped them succeed in their math class. Background & Overview Seminole State College (SSC) math faculty sought to redesign their math sequence to help students graduate on time and place them into math pathways most relevant to their fields of study. In fall 2017, the Mathematics Department launched corequisite math pathways in Quantitative Reasoning, Statistics, and STEM tracks. Within just a few semesters, SSC transitioned to a 100% corequisite model across all math courses. Placement & Course Structure Students are placed in a pathway based on their major, so they can learn the most applicable mathematics for their future careers. Placement into a corequisite course is determined by ACT math scores, QAS Accuplacer results, and a Multiple Measures Rubric to ensure students receive the level of support they need. * STEM includes Precalculus for ENG-PHYS-CS and Functions & Modeling Each pathway pairs with a credit-bearing course immediately followed by a lab (corequisite) course that provides targeted lesson content and individualized support. With this model, students receive one-on-one help immediately after learning new material, reinforcing mastery and confidence. Corequisite remediation is also offered online, where intentional communication and targeted math review are integrated directly into the course design. Results & Student Impact With this new model, more students are passing their credit-bearing math courses within their first year, increasing overall retention and graduation rates. “The lab class (corequisite) helped me so much. I was able to get one-on-one help on questions I needed help with. The extra class was the reason I was able to pass with an A.” -Isaac H., Seminole State College student “Special Topics (corequisite course directly following the credit-bearing math course) really helped me grow as a student! Being able to head to Special Topics after learning a new objective was very helpful because I was able to receive one-on-one help from the professor. It was a class that definitely gave me the confidence to succeed in college! “ -Bryce F., Seminole State College student
November 11, 2025
Courses: Quantitative Reasoning, Elementary Statistics, Functions and Modeling,...
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Highlights Improved grades and retention: The average grade in the General Psychology course significantly improved by approximately 23.08%, rising from a low “B” average to a mid-“A” average. Improved pass rate: The pass rate increased by approximately 25.64%, and drop rates nearly disappeared by fall 2024. Decreased test anxiety: Excluding the years 2019-2020 due to the influence of COVID-19 on test anxiety, we observe a 40% drop in the first year Hawkes was implemented, based on the 2018-2019 report of 10 students, followed by an 80% decrease and eventually a 100% elimination of students reporting test anxiety at the Center for Testing Support. This case study demonstrates the value of making thoughtful, research-informed changes to course design, particularly when addressing both academic performance and student mental health. Background and Context In the 2019-2020 school year, the psychology faculty at Neosho County Community College (NCCC) were concerned about the pass rate and overall grades achieved in their introductory-level General Psychology course. Some of the concerns were that on average, 6-9% of the students starting the course dropped and that 14-18% received “Ds or Fs” as their final grades. The faculty felt these were not acceptable scores for a 100-level class. (These results were for the cumulative in-person and online courses offered.) On average, the college hosts 250-300 students in the General Psychology class each semester. A secondary issue occurred in the in-person classes on the main campus in Chanute, Kansas. This issue was that each semester 6-11 students were reporting mental health issues about taking the class as well as often voicing concern over their entire class load. Mr. Mark Johnston, a professor on the main campus, runs a test anxiety clinic for all students on the campus. He noted that many students reporting test anxiety or generalized anxiety were concerned about the work required and the assessments in their General Psychology courses. The psychology department saw a need for changes in the course and the course materials used. They also hoped to adjust teaching methods to address these issues. The psychology department reviewed several different textbooks and support materials, seeking a better tool to address the problems and make the course more enjoyable and meaningful overall. “Hawkes is a learning system, not just a textbook or software. Students are immersed in their learning from the moment they start to the very end of the course. The system has so many intuitive elements that even students who are not very computer literate find working in it easy and fulfilling.” – Professor Mark Johnston Implementation In the spring of 2020, the department decided to adopt Hawkes Learning’s Introduction to Psychology. This decision was reached due to a few reasons, one of which was that the courseware was mastery-based, something the faculty agreed was needed. They also valued the support Hawkes was offering to implement the change. The faculty also reviewed other schools’ use of the Hawkes system and felt that Hawkes’ supporting software would fulfill their needs. Over the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, the faculty worked out a plan to present a uniform class with the same materials and the same teaching methods. Their goal was to provide all students taking the General Psychology class with a similar teaching and learning environment. This included standardizing the associated PowerPoint slides, lecture highlights, and, where appropriate, recorded lectures for online students. Similarly, weekly quizzes, exams, and papers were all standardized to present every student with the same materials and assessment procedures. Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, the faculty implemented the Hawkes system. To their delight, the results exceeded their expectations. Outcomes within the course all exceeded state standards, and drop rates were almost nonexistent. Similarly, the overall grade averages rose from a low “B” average to a mid-A average. A similar unexpected outcome was noted in the text-anxiety clinic. Likewise, student self-reports on the course were all very positive for the Hawkes system and the mastery-based approach that the psychology faculty implemented. Over the ensuing school years, grades and satisfaction with the Hawkes Learning system have remained high. Similarly, the number of students coming in for test anxiety has less than or equal to 1 for four consecutive semesters. This suggested that the new system not only addressed academic struggles but also alleviated psychological barriers to success. At the start of the Fall 2024 semester, the department implemented the second edition of the textbook and learning tools. This included Hawkes’ AI Tutor feature to support students during their homework sessions. Grades across all General Psychology courses have remained high, as have student reports of the Hawkes system. At first, the AI Tutor tool was not often utilized, as students were afraid that using AI to help them might result in academic dishonesty charges. Once it was made clear that AI Tutor only supports learning and not actual testing, usage improved. Conclusion The integration of the Hawkes Learning System at Neosho County Community College has significantly transformed the General Psychology course, leading to remarkable improvements in both academic performance and student well-being. By embracing a mastery-based learning approach and standardizing course materials and assessments, faculty at NCCC effectively addressed persistent challenges such as low pass rates, high drop-out rates, and mental health concerns, particularly test anxiety. The results have exceeded expectations, with student grades improving, engagement rising, and anxiety-related issues sharply decreasing. These results demonstrate that students flourish in a supportive, engaging, and mentally healthy environment, further establishing Hawkes as a model of effective, student-centered education. Learn more about Hawkes Learning’s Psychology curriculum and mastery-based offerings here.
November 4, 2025
Highlights Improved grades and retention:
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Mastery learning is transforming the way students engage with challenging material, and Hawkes Learning is at the forefront of this shift. By emphasizing understanding over memorization, Hawkes empowers students to take control of their learning journey, building confidence through personalized, self-paced practice. In this blog, we're highlighting firsthand experiences from students who have thrived using Hawkes Learning’s mastery-based approach—discovering not only improved grades but also a renewed sense of motivation and achievement in their academic lives. Let’s hear directly from the students who’ve experienced the power of mastery learning. Ella from Guilford College “Hawkes’ mastery approach has made a difference in my educational experience because it makes it feel more personal. I know I can learn at my own pace and always go back to practice to understand the content before being tested on it. This makes me feel more at ease when learning something because I know I don’t have the pressure of a time constraint and I don’t have to get it right the first time.” Trenton from Prairie View A&M University “I love the Hawkes mastery approach because it forces you to learn to do the work (in a good way). It makes you go to the practice first and study as much as you can and work on a bunch of practice problems. Then, you are able to move on to similar questions in the Certify mode (using the mastery approach). It helps you genuinely learn instead of just doing homework.” Ash from University of Charleston “The mastery approach allows me to go through my Certify lessons and complete a majority of the lessons that I am confident in, while still getting a few problems wrong that I might be struggling with a little bit. This creates a more stress-free environment, where I can get one or two questions wrong and then go back and focus on them later, which ultimately reduces the number of errors I make from just being stressed about getting everything right.” Stephanie from Walla Walla University “Before I started using Hawkes, I would just hope for the best, but with Hawkes, it would make me understand before we moved forward… When I made a mistake, it didn’t just mark me wrong; it showed me how I was wrong and what I could do to fix it. The Certify part is my favorite because it makes me make sure that I understand the lesson before moving on and be more patient and consistent with my studying. Overall, the mastery approach has made me feel more confident in my studies.” Jay from San Diego City College “I absolutely loved Hawkes’ mastery approach. I loved how the structure is clear and concise, and the varied problem-solving really serves as a great stepping stone toward mastering just about any subject. I loved how I was always able to have a clear goal in mind, and that really made it feel easier and a lot more accessible while I was learning.”
October 22, 2025
Mastery learning is transforming the way students engage with challenging...
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“I would recommend Hawkes wholeheartedly to anyone seeking to integrate an online textbook experience with their students.” Lucy Horton is an associate professor at College of Coastal Georgia and teaches dual enrollment courses at a local high school. She has been teaching dual enrollment courses for three semesters with Hawkes Learning and recently shared her experience. Title Used: Precalculus, 3rd Edition “The amazing folks at Hawkes Learning understand the challenges that educators face each semester and provide unprecedented, personal one-on-one help every time. What I am in awe about most recently is the fact that Hawkes set up three Sundays in a row that corresponded with the start times of various colleges around the country. It was on Sunday afternoon when I realized something was awry with my grade book. I was able to call in on Sunday and talk with a live agent, and they set up a Zoom call with me, shared my screen, and walked me through all the necessary fixes. It is absolutely amazing that a company would provide this amazing service—right in time—for educators trying to be fully prepared and ready for the new semester! Way to go, Hawkes; you guys get it and provide amazing support when it is most needed. I am so grateful! My students appreciate the Hawkes platform for its videos, practice, AI tutor, and opportunities to improve their math skills. The platform provides students with what they need and educators with seamless integration with various college learning platforms. I would recommend Hawkes wholeheartedly to anyone seeking to integrate an online textbook experience with their students. Their educator support is unparalleled in the marketplace. The integration between it and the various college learning platforms makes it effortless for educators trying to assign and grade student work. Thank you, Hawkes Support; you make my job much easier!” “Thank you, Hawkes Support; you make my job much easier!”
October 6, 2025
“I would recommend Hawkes wholeheartedly to anyone seeking to integrate an...
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We’re delighted to offer an exciting internship program to students from colleges and universities across the country. This fall, we have an excellent group of student interns joining us for our Hawkes Learning Student Ambassadors program! Each semester, our Student Ambassadors offer guidance and one-on-one assistance with all things Hawkes to fellow students on campus, helping them to find homework assignments, create practice tests, learn best practices for using Hawkes’ courseware, and more. Read below to get acquainted with this semester’s team of talented Student Ambassadors. Ella from Guilford College Ella is a senior at Guilford College, pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies with a minor in Religious Studies. After graduation, she hopes to keep learning about natural processes and do meaningful work with plants and animals. With her free time, she enjoys walks in the Guilford Woods, looking at birds, and honing her arts and crafts skills through woodburning and watercolor. Margaret from Purdue Global Margaret is completing her degree in Project Management at Purdue Global at the age of 40, taking on her second journey in higher education with dedication and determination. She is from Indiana and is a proud mother of four, including one child currently in nursing school. In her free time, she enjoys attending concerts and spending quality time with her family and friends. Jay from San Diego City College Jay is a future linguist stationed at their local City College in sunny San Diego, California. With a passion for language, Jay is currently studying Humanities and Language Arts with the goal of transferring to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics next year. The first time they used Hawkes was during the Spring 2025 semester in their Elementary Statistics course. Outside of San Diego City College, Jay enjoys reading, video games, art, and working at the San Diego Museum of Art. Joe from SUNY Old Westbury Joe is a Biology major at SUNY Old Westbury. His dream is to perform noteworthy research and make an impact on the world through science. Joe is interested in wildlife and marine biology, as well as cytology and teaching. He is passionate about nature and animals, among many other things. When he is not learning about science, he can be found teaching guitar and bass, practicing martial arts, exercising, hiking, and traveling. Ash from the University of Charleston Ashton is a junior at the University of Charleston, studying Biology and Data Analytics. He is also enrolled in an online Mathematic B.S. program through Indiana University. Ash holds an institutional GPA of 4.0 at both universities, with a cumulative GPA of over 3.9. After graduating, his goal is to pursue medical school and continue research. In his free time, Ash likes to go on walks, tend to his plants, and spend time with his cat Pythagoras. Stephanie from Walla Walla University Stephanie, now a sophomore, attends a small town college in Walla Walla, known as Walla Walla University, in Washington. When she is not studying for an exam or drinking caffeine to stay awake to study, you will find her hanging out with friends, watching movies, or listening to music. She is recently trying to get back into playing chess again and to read more books. Trenton from Prairie View A&M University Trenton is a senior at Prairie View A&M University. He is studying mathematics and hopes to get his teacher certification so that he can teach future students in various math classes. He loves to tutor students who need help with many forms of math. He loves to play video games and watch football and basketball in his free time. He also loves to create content for YouTube and TikTok. He is also a sneakerhead and has a large collection of Nikes and Jordans. This is his fourth semester as a Hawkes Learning Student Ambassador. Nicholas from Piedmont University Nicholas attends Piedmont University and is a sophomore majoring in biology. He is looking to go into the medicine field, as he has always felt he has a calling and a purpose to help people. Although medicine is his passion, he is devoted to helping others in a general sense. One of his favorite quotes is “learning how to learn,” which reflects his position as a Hawkes Ambassador this semester as he helps students “learn how to learn” through Hawkes. He is looking forward to having a great semester and a great learning experience through Hawkes’ various programs. Are you interested in becoming a Hawkes Student Ambassador? Learn more about this exciting internship opportunity and submit your application here!
September 24, 2025
We’re delighted to offer an exciting internship program to students from...
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We’re excited to introduce Calculus with Early Transcendentals Plus Integrated Review courseware and eBook: a complete calculus course solution that supports student success without the need for separate remediation or additional materials. Flexibly designed for both corequisite and traditional courses, this title combines the full rigor of the calculus curriculum with strategically placed review chapters and powerful learning aids to meet each student where they are. Take a quick tour of the new Calculus with Early Transcendentals Plus Integrated Review with Calculus Product Lead, Claudia Vance! Highlights Include: Premade Diagnostics Assessments 2,800+ Total Courseware Questions 1,150+ Precalculus Courseware Questions 38 Precalculus Review Lessons & Videos New Chapter: Strategies for Academic Success Explore the Full Table of Contents Let’s Take a Closer Look at What’s Inside Premade Diagnostics Quickly assess student preparedness for curriculum-level content with pre-built diagnostic tests for each review chapter, plus a comprehensive test covering all review chapters. These assessment tools make it easy to identify gaps early and adjust instruction efficiently. 2,800+ Courseware Questions Support mastery through meaningful and plentiful practice. With more than 2,800 questions across difficulty levels—including over 1,150 dedicated to precalculus review—students can reinforce both foundational skills and core calculus concepts with immediate, guided feedback through Explain Error and AI Tutor. Precalculus Review Lessons & Videos Provide targeted, just-in-time review content right when it’s needed. These 38 short, focused lessons reinforce essential precalculus concepts with engaging lesson and example-level videos provide clear explanations and appeal to diverse student learning preferences. New Chapter: Strategies for Academic Success Give students the tools to thrive with a chapter dedicated to effective study skills, problem-solving strategies, and habits for lasting academic success. Chapter 0: Strategies for Academic Success 0.1 Understanding and Reducing Stress 0.2 Staying Organized 0.3 Managing Your Time Effectively 0.4 Reading a Textbook and Note-Taking 0.5 Using Effective Study Strategies 0.6 Reducing Test Anxiety
September 18, 2025
We’re excited to introduce Calculus with Early Transcendentals Plus Integrated...
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We’re excited to announce the release of the 3rd Edition of Introductory & Intermediate Algebra, a high-quality combination title designed to support both corequisite models and two-course developmental algebra sequences. This new edition helps students build algebra skills for future math courses through active learning, practical examples, and real-world applications. Introductory & Intermediate Algebra, 3rd Edition Topics include: Real numbers Linear equations and inequalities Exponents and polynomials Quadratic equations Complex numbers Conic sections Sequences and series Students build conceptual understanding while engaging with skill-based and application-driven content. Explore the Full Table of Contents Let’s Take A Look At What’s New Expanded Practice & Assessment Questions To meet a wide range of learning styles and provide more opportunities for skill development, we’ve expanded both the courseware and textbook practice materials. In the Courseware: 1,400+ new questions 360 application-based 3,500+ total questions In the Textbook: 1,892 new exercises 909 new Concept Checks (Total: 925) 369 new Practice Exercises (Total: 5,468) 574 new Application Exercises (Total: 1,092) 38 new Writing & Thinking Exercises (Total: 195) 2 new Collaborative Learning Exercises (Total: 5) 7,685 total textbook exercises Completion Examples & Margin Exercises: Completion examples in the content guide students with partial solutions and an answer key at the end, while corresponding margin exercises for each example reinforce understanding through immediate practice. New & Updated Instructional Content This edition reflects feedback from instructors and students, with updates that promote academic success and more seamless instruction. Streamlined table of contents and a redesigned textbook with a modern layout improve content flow, readability, and the overall student experience. New chapter: Strategies for Academic Success Covers time management, test-taking strategies, note-taking, and stress reduction to help students thrive in any math course. New lesson: Least Common Multiple of Polynomials Updated examples and lesson content for modern relevance and improved clarity New and updated calculator instructions Real-World Connections & Application-Based Learning We’ve added new projects, exercises, and contextual content to help students see how algebra connects to everyday life. 26 ready-to-assign chapter projects (two per chapter) promote collaboration and connect math to hands-on, real-world scenarios. “Connections” chapter openers link key concepts to everyday experiences, building engagement from the start. Application-based exercises in both courseware and textbook create a cohesive learning experience that helps develop real-world problem-solving skills. Want a Closer Look? Request demo access to explore the student experience firsthand or get a free review copy of the 3rd edition textbook today!
September 9, 2025
We’re excited to announce the release of the 3rd Edition of Introductory &...
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Great news Hawkes instructors…you can now see exactly how much time your students are spending with AI Tutor, directly in the Assignment Reviewer report! Within Assignment Reviewer, select a lesson to open the Assignment Results page. You’ll now see a new column showing how much time each student spent using AI Tutor for that assignment. This update makes it easier than ever to: Identify which students are actively engaging with the tool Spot students who might benefit from additional support Provide more targeted intervention strategies Connect AI Tutor usage patterns with student progress AI Tutor: Designed to Support Genuine Learning We know generative AI has a mixed reputation among educators; that’s why we intentionally designed AI Tutor to be different. AI Tutor doesn’t just give students the answer. It engages students in a conversational way, prompting them to think critically, work through problems independently, and build lasting skills by answering questions like: “Can you define reactant for me?” “Can you give me some background info on this?” “Can you walk me through each step of this problem?” “Can you explain this in a different way?” “I’m a nursing student. How does this help me with my job?” “How do I solve this using a TI-84?” For more practical examples and insights, check out “How AI Tutor Transforms Learning with Real-Time, Personalized Support”. Why Students and Instructors Love AI Tutor “[AI Tutor] was like having a 24/7 tutor who knew exactly where I was struggling and could guide me back on track. Instead of drowning in complicated terminology, it broke things down in a way that felt approachable.” – Inam O., Student at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise AI Tutor continues to provide just-in-time, step-by-step support that adapts to each student’s unique needs. Whether students are stuck on a specific question or reviewing foundational concepts, AI Tutor helps them move forward with confidence by: Offering real-time help—no waiting for office hours Promoting s independent problem-solving Providing personalized responses tailored to student input Being available 24/7 for anytime learning support Want to Explore More? This new engagement tracking feature is just one way we’re helping you better support your students’ learning journey. To discover additional AI Tutor features, access student tips, or learn more about maximizing this tool’s potential in your classroom, Need a refresher on AI Tutor features or student tips? Click here to explore more.
July 24, 2025
Great news Hawkes instructors…you can now see exactly how much time your...
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Courses: Prealgebra, Introductory Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, Precalculus, Prestatistics “With a Master’s degree in Instructional Technology, I always say Hawkes Learning has excellent products, but their service elevates them far beyond any of the other software products that I have experienced over the past 30 years.” Professor Zehr has been teaching mathematics for over 30 years and spent the last 12 years teaching developmental and applied mathematics at North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City, Iowa. Over the course of his teaching career, a significant portion has been spent working with at-risk or developmental students. In each of his courses, Professor Zehr uses Hawkes Learning’s student software and has seen an increase in students’ career-readiness and technical preparedness for future courses including those in the Arts and Sciences areas. “The courseware is designed to build confidence in the students who struggle, as well as, challenge the students, who need a good review and preparation for a college-level course. Students build their confidence as they improve their math skills, and they find comfort in the structure and repetition of the problem sets.” Hawkes’ 3-step mastery approach has helped his students with targeted practice and given them the ability to test out of sections that they’ve already demonstrated mastery. “The structure of the Learn, Practice, and Certify format provides students with a predictable framework while being able to use this structure to be able to practice, improve, and master the necessary skills to transition to the college-level courses needed to pursue their desired career.” A few stand-out features of the courseware include: Practice Test: Provides a quick review of the concepts, serving as a helpful tool for exam preparation. Best Score: Encourages students to retake tests and strive for a higher standard of success without fear of doing worse and lowering their grade. “Combine [these] features with “exceptional” service, and you have a courseware product that will prepare students at any level of ability for a promising future.”
July 21, 2025
Courses: Prealgebra, Introductory Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, Precalculus,...
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Professor Christos Noutsos teaches his Biology I courses at SUNY–Old Westbury with Hawkes Learning’s Biology courseware. As a valued Hawkes Faculty Consultant, we were eager to learn more about his journey as a professor. We invite you to read along to learn more about Professor Noutsos’ experience as a Hawkes instructor below! Professor Christos Noutsos has been teaching since 2017 and has been using Hawkes Learning’s Biology courseware in his courses for three semesters. When asked about what inspired a career in teaching, Professor Noutsos reflected on his childhood. He grew up in Vrisochori (Βρυσοχώρι), Greece. It was in “Gymnasio” (what could be compared to “middle school” in Greece) that he was drawn to learning more about plants and their biology. He considers this time period of his life as what sparked a desire to teach others about biology and what led him to pursue the goal of being a part of an institution that would allow him to both teach and conduct research. He expressed that his current institution gives him this opportunity now. Professor Noutsos also shared a memory of when he had the opportunity to participate in a field trip where his uncle led a lesson in how to cultivate plants. This example sparked creativity, leading to his teaching style today that surrounds helping students become hands-on with their learning. The villiage of Vrisochori (Βρυσοχώρι), located at the broader region of Zagorochoria Ioannina (Ζαγοροχώρια, Ιωάννινα) in Greece. We asked Professor Noutsos what he would consider to be the most valuable lesson he has learned as a teacher. He replied, “The most important thing I’ve realized is that we are dealing with humans… so I think the most important thing is patience; it’s the best approach to reach the students.” He has certainly applied patience in his teaching, as he described exploring different classroom styles throughout his career. He has found that lectures on their own are not as effective, so he employs a combination of lecture with hands-on learning experiences. He has also used the flipped classroom approach, having students choose a topic and present in class on their topic. Through these adaptations, he has found that the broader umbrella of active learning is what is working best for today’s students. He believes that the students’ biggest challenge is to balance all their responsibilities, so it is important to provide strong structure for them when possible. Challenges and Solutions for the Modern Classroom When asked what he believes to be instructors’ greatest challenge today, Professor Noutsos explained that it can be challenging to engage students properly with the material. He emphasized that discovering what best supports each student requires compassion, active outreach, dedication, and patience. Professor Noutsos explained that his courses have smaller class sizes. This aids in promoting hands-on learning and student engagement within the classroom, as it allows him to get to know his students rather quickly. As he gets to know his students, he learns how to guide them in making meaningful connections between the lecture material and their corresponding lab work. He also has taken an alternative approach to his office hours. In the past, he held traditional office hours within his office on campus. Recently, he has started hosting office hours at the campus café and campus library. By being in a more casual environment, he feels that the students are more comfortable asking their questions. How Hawes Supports Students & Instructors like Prof. Noutsos Affordability and thorough coverage of topics are what have kept Professor Noutsos coming back each semester. He appreciates that students can use the same Biology courseware in both the Biology I and II courses. He also loves that the students have lifetime access to the courseware for continued learning. “The students also love the depth of the book and the style that the platform uses… They like the fact that they can Certify themselves,” Professor Noutsos shared. He went on to say that the Hawkes Support Team has made a difference to him as an instructor, expressing that the 24/7 Live Chat has been extra helpful during late-night questions and on weekends. Professor Noutsos expressed that having a Hawkes Student Ambassador on campus has also provided significant additional support to the students. He has found that one-to-one training meetings with his Hawkes Customer Success Specialist have been beneficial, as they help him set up his entire semester in a single meeting, helping lift a large burden for him in semester preparations. He has especially enjoyed the “Assignment Reminder” feature, which allows instructors to set up automatic assignment reminder emails to be sent to the students throughout the term. “The flexibility is huge – I can choose what I want for my course. I can do that in a very straightforward and easy way. I don’t have to spend hours… I can go exactly where I need to go.” When asked what advice he’d give to new Hawkes instructors, Professor Noutsos said, “Take advantage of the one-to-one sessions. It will save a lot of time throughout the semester. Take the time to explore the platform, because there is so much you can get out of it to help you evaluate your students.”
May 20, 2025
Professor Christos Noutsos teaches his Biology I courses at SUNY–Old Westbury...
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As a new term approaches, the excitement of crafting an engaging learning environment is often paired with the challenge of course preparation. To ease this stress, our Customer Success team has created a series of course prep videos to make your life easier and your teaching smoother. Proper planning and preparation go a long way, so we’ve designed these guides to walk you through each setup task step-by-step, helping you lay the groundwork for a fantastic semester of improved learning outcomes and student success. By taking care of these essentials now, you’ll free up more time to focus on what you do best – inspiring your students! “Hawkes Learning makes the tasks related to coordinating course sections simple, straightforward, and swift.” — Jerome Lewis, Bellevue University Your Hawkes Course Prep Playlist: Section Setup for New Instructors This video is a must-watch for those new to Hawkes. It provides a comprehensive guide on setting up your sections correctly. Section Setup for Returning Instructors For those who have already used Hawkes and just need a quick refresher, this video covers the basics of setting up your sections. Curriculum Customization Tailoring your curriculum to meet specific course needs can make a huge difference. This tutorial guides you through our curriculum builder and the course customization options available within it. Creating & Assigning Tests Tests are a crucial part of the learning process. This video shows you how to create and assign both online and pencil-and-paper tests that accurately assess student understanding using our integrated WebTests tool. Reports Overview Understanding student performance is vital. This video provides an overview of the robust reporting tools available in the Hawkes Instructor Platform, including All Student Scores, Detailed Student Grades, Search by Criteria, and Assignment Reviewer. Integrating Hawkes with Your LMS Integrating Hawkes with your Learning Management System (LMS) is an easy way to streamline your workflow and save time. We’ve put together two helpful blog posts with video walkthroughs to guide you through the integration process whether you’re using LTI 1.1 or LTI Advantage (LTI 1.3). Preparation is key, and with the right tools, you can create an engaging and effective learning environment for your students. Here’s to a great semester! Still have questions? We’re here to help! Head to https://www.hawkeslearning.com/instructors/training-request to schedule a one-on-one training session.
May 8, 2025
As a new term approaches, the excitement of crafting an engaging learning...
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Andrea Vinci, Ed.D. Andrea Vinci, Ed.D. is an Associate Professor and Division Coordinator at Rowan College of South Jersey. She teaches multiple courses at the college, including ENG 101, in which she uses Hawkes Learning’s English Composition, 2nd Edition courseware. I first started using Hawkes for my online courses in 2019. I thought it was useful and engaging for students in distance-learning courses to master the materials that I usually taught in my in-person lectures. Fast-forward to 2020…the pandemic hit and EVERY class went online. I was uploading lectures, but without the hands-on, in-class activities to gauge student mastery of the different topics, I knew I needed to make a change. That’s when I made the switch to using Hawkes in all of my courses. I still taught each topic through a video to students and used my own essay assignments, but I was able to use the Hawkes Learn/Practice/Certify tools to make sure they truly understood the different modes of writing, how to find, implement, and cite sources, and proper grammar. It gave my students the ability to master these topics and then apply them to their writing. Even after returning to the classroom, I decided to still use Hawkes in this way. We focus on hands-on learning in class, and then they complete the Hawkes assignments at home, at their own pace, to truly master the material. The results have been really great. Not only does Hawkes allow for extra time and materials to master the core content of ENG 101, it also serves as a great resource for when a student is absent or misses a class for any reason (which we all know is very common post-Covid!). Students can still learn all the materials we covered while they were out. I also like that it allows each student to learn at their own pace for each topic. If they understand something well, students can easily certify their mastery. If they need a little more help with a certain topic, they can practice, learn, and attempt mastery as many times as needed to fully learn and master the topic. “Overall, Hawkes has been a truly useful learning resource in both my online, hybrid, and traditional in-person courses. Students find it to be a helpful learning tool, and I think it’s a great teaching tool. The technical support is also readily available and helpful at all times.”
April 24, 2025
That’s when I made the switch to using Hawkes in all of my courses. I still...
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With rising academic pressure and student stress at an all-time high, many students are tempted to seek shortcuts for completing assignments, with apps like Mathway and Photomath offering quick solutions. However, as many students have discovered, these tools may help solve their homework problems, but don’t foster long-term understanding. In contrast, Hawkes Learning has garnered praise for its mastery-based approach, which not only helps students solve problems but also encourages a deeper understanding of the underlying concepts. Through step-by-step guidance and personalized learning features, Hawkes helps students build real confidence and skills, preparing them for exams and future success. It’s this emphasis on genuine learning, rather than quick fixes, that truly sets Hawkes apart. Hear directly from our Student Ambassadors on how Hawkes has enhanced their own learning experiences leading to lasting success. Terrell B. from Mississippi Valley State University: “Hawkes Learning has truly helped me build a strong understanding of math by guiding me through each concept step by step rather than just giving me the answer. Unlike instant-solve apps like Photo Math, which only provide quick solutions, Hawkes ensures I learn the material through its mastery-based approach. One of the biggest advantages is that it identifies the areas where I struggle and gives me personalized questions to strengthen my understanding, making it feel like I have a tutor built into the program. This has greatly impacted my confidence and performance because I no longer memorize answers; I understand how to solve problems on my own. Thanks to Hawkes’ interactive tools and customized learning features, I’ve seen real improvements in my test scores and overall comprehension, and I know these skills will help me succeed far beyond the classroom.” Ada B. from Guilford College: “They [Hawkes Learning] want to see you succeed, and every aspect of the software works towards that goal. I say this having taken a Hawkes Statistics course in my first semester of college. With Hawkes, I easily secured an “A.” I was able to do so because everything is right there: Explain Error, Step-By-Step, lessons, 24/7 tutors. I never wanted for assistance, and was thus able to secure a passing grade, not without some difficulty, but without giving up. And even more than that, I came through with an understanding of—and even an interest in—the course. With Hawkes, you can rest assured that the help you receive comes directly from the software itself rather than some sketchy website deep within the bowels of the internet, and it is tailored to your individual needs. Learning isn’t a “one size fits all” endeavor. It, like any other art, requires a degree of personalization and adjustment. Hawkes recognizes this and sees it as an advantage rather than an obstacle.“ John S. from the University of Mississippi: “I would personally like to say how much Hawkes has helped me master my math lessons. I feel confident going into the lab to take my exam because I know that I can solve anything that is going to be asked on that test. Instant solving websites only give you an answer, that is not even always correct, instead of helping you work through the problem and explain why you got it wrong. This is where Hawkes differs because it provides the step by step solution and an AI tutor to help you understand the concept that the question is based around. In all, the instant solution websites are only momentarily helpful, while Hawkes sets students up for long-term success.“ Vatsal B. from the University of North Carolina—Charlotte: “Relying on cheating apps might save you time in the short term, but it will hurt in more challenging classes in the future. Hawkes leads to long-term success by teaching you to actually learn the concepts and formulas.” Inam O. from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise: “Hawkes actually helps you learn instead of just giving you the answer like apps such as MathWay, Studocu, or GauthMath. Those apps might seem like a quick fix, but they don’t really teach you anything. They just spit out solutions. That might get you through homework, but when it’s time for a test, you’re stuck… With Hawkes, you have to actually work through problems step-by-step, so you understand why the answer is what it is. The way it is set up forces you to practice until you really get it, which makes a huge difference when it comes to exams or using math later. Even if you’re not in a math class right now, the same idea applies to other subjects. Real learning takes effort, and shortcuts don’t lead to long-term success.“ Are you interested in becoming a Hawkes Student Ambassador? Learn more about this exciting internship opportunity and submit your application here!
March 26, 2025
With rising academic pressure and student stress at an all-time high, many...
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“Hawkes has earned its place as my top choice for educational support.” Professor Niki Stovall at Prarie View A&M University is committed to helping students succeed in mathematics. Like many instructors, she’s seen firsthand how challenges like lack of motivation, poor study habits, and gaps in foundational knowledge can hinder student progress. Titles & Courses: College Algebra, 3rd Edition Plus Integrated Review – Comprehensive Math Skills for College Algebra College Algebra, 3rd Edition – College Algebra Beginning Statistics, 3rd Edition – Elementary Statistics Precalculus, 3rd Edition – College Algebra and Trigonometry Read on to hear firsthand how Professor Stovall has seen Hawkes make a lasting impact, helping students stay engaged, develop stronger study habits, and build the confidence they need to succeed. Many students struggle with motivation, which makes it challenging for them to study consistently, attend class regularly, and seek extra help when needed. Additionally, a significant number of students enter college-level courses without the necessary background knowledge or foundational skills, particularly in areas like reading comprehension and organization. This lack of preparedness can hinder their success in higher education. Thankfully, Hawkes has been an incredible resource, offering valuable support to both students and instructors in multiple ways. Here are just a few of the ways Hawkes has made a difference: Useful Study Resources One of the key aspects of Hawkes’ success is the high-quality study resources they provide. The Hawkes team created a formula sheet for MATH 1314 that is well-designed—concise, easy to read, and highly effective for exams. This tool has proven to be incredibly helpful for students, offering a clear and effective way to prepare for exams. Student Training Hawkes also provides top-notch support and training, which has been invaluable for students navigating the platform. The Hawkes Student Ambassador and Customer Success teams have been essential in helping students develop effective learning strategies. Joshua from Hawkes’ Customer Success Team, in particular, has been a great asset, leading training sessions, answering questions, and providing in-class support. His presence in the classroom has significantly boosted student confidence and comprehension. Students have recognized that Hawkes Support is always available, fostering trust that they will receive the help they need when they reach out. “Students have recognized that Hawkes Support is always available, fostering trust that they will receive the help they need when they reach out.” Encouraging Study Habits Hawkes has also fostered positive study habits and created a more engaging and supportive learning environment. We had a great turnout of students who attended our Final Exam Review at the conclusion of the Fall 2024 term. This event showed how Hawkes’ thoughtful initiatives contribute to a more collaborative and supportive atmosphere, making students feel more prepared and encouraged to succeed. The Tutor button housed in Hawkes’ Practice mode has been especially beneficial to the students’ study time. It walks students through step-by-step solutions and explains errors, helping them learn from mistakes and improve problem-solving skills. Positive Impact on Final Exam Results We had a great turnout for the final exam review session, and overall, final exam results for my classes were pretty good. Having a member of Hawkes Learning’s Customer Success Team come to my class to train students was especially helpful. His presence reinforced that students could rely on Hawkes for support. Exceptional Customer Support One of the standout aspects of Hawkes is their exceptional customer support. I can always count on Hawkes for anything—student support, instructor assistance, and more. Their customer service is outstanding, available 24/7, ensuring we receive help immediately, even after midnight and on weekends. The Hawkes support team is well-trained, helpful, and polite, making every interaction a positive one. Customer support is crucial in any educational platform, and Hawkes truly excels in this area. When students face technical issues, many other publishers are slow to respond—or don’t respond at all—leaving faculty to troubleshoot, which can be time-consuming. Hawkes stands out by providing timely, reliable support. Their tech support team is understanding, proactive, and quick to diagnose and resolve issues, even when instructors aren’t sure what’s wrong. Personalized Support from Marissa Maffei Another huge benefit of Hawkes is the personalized attention we receive from our dedicated Customer Success Specialist, Marissa Maffei. Marissa’s support has been invaluable to both instructors and students. At the start of each term, she conducts in-person meetings to assist with course setup and consistently checks in throughout the semester to ensure we have everything we need. Her eagerness to help and commitment to top-notch support provide a sense of ease, knowing assistance is always available. Marissa makes connecting effortless by offering a direct scheduling link, allowing us to book meetings at our convenience. Thanks to her support, we feel confident using Hawkes every step of the way. Peace of Mind for Faculty and Students Overall, Hawkes has made a positive impact by providing academic, financial, and student support, making learning more accessible and effective. The level of support Hawkes provides has made a significant impact on both faculty and student success. With Hawkes’ dedication to student success and their exceptional customer service, I know that we will always have the resources and assistance we need to thrive in the classroom. Hawkes has earned its place as my top choice for educational support. “The level of support Hawkes provides helps both faculty and students succeed and gives me peace of mind knowing that support is always available.”
February 28, 2025
“Hawkes has earned its place as my top choice for educational support.”...
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Sheri Stewart, a lecturer at Prairie View A&M University, has found Hawkes Learning to be an invaluable resource across the various courses she teaches. Read along to learn more about the impact Hawkes has made in Professor Stewart’s math classes! Titles & Courses: Mathematics with Applications in Business and Social Sciences – Finite Math Viewing Life Mathematically, Second Edition – Contemporary College Algebra Precalculus, Third Edition –Trigonometry College Algebra, Third Edition – College Algebra “I first started using Hawkes for my Contemporary College Algebra class, and it was a better fit in comparison to what we were using before,” Professor Stewart shares. She appreciated that the platform aligned with her teaching needs, offering engaging content that meets the demands of both face-to-face and online classes. After the math faculty saw Hawkes’ positive impact, they chose to expand its use to other courses, including College Algebra, Trigonometry, and Finite Math. Professor Stewart says that one of the standout features of Hawkes is the Learn-Practice-Certify model. “If students miss class or do not understand something during class, they have Learn to review the material again. Practice gives them all the tools they need if they’re not getting it,” Professor Stewart explains. For online and face-to-face students alike, Hawkes provides the necessary tools for mastering difficult concepts, particularly with its step-by-step guidance and AI-powered feature, AI Tutor. “The AI Tutor is great, and the tool answers the students’ questions in a way that we as professors would do. The other Tutor resources in Practice provide students step-by-step guidance and new iterations of problems to practice,” she says. Professor Stewart appreciates how the Certify feature incentivizes students to work through challenges and reach mastery in each homework lesson. “Who doesn’t like the opportunity to prove you’ve mastered at least 70% of the material and earn a 100% for your grade? This gives the students the incentive to really try,” Professor Stewart expresses. She loves that her students can revisit content until they truly understand it, without pressure. She has noticed that many students enjoy the ability to revisit material until they grasp it fully, without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, she expressed that her students enjoyed using Hawkes enough to apply to intern for the company! Per her recommendation, her student, Trenton Jeffers, applied for the Hawkes Student Ambassador internship program, which has provided extra Hawkes support to the students on campus. Hawkes Learning’s customer support has been a key positive in Professor Stewart’s experience. “Whenever I’ve had a question or encountered an issue, I’ve been able to speak directly with a knowledgeable person who resolves my problem quickly,” Professor Stewart expresses. She says she’s utilized both Hawkes’ phone and chat service, finding that the Support Team’s response has always been prompt and effective. “Whenever I’ve had a question or encountered an issue, I’ve been able to speak directly with a knowledgeable person who resolves my problem quickly.” She also values the long-term access that Hawkes provides to students. “One thing I especially appreciate is the access that students have to Hawkes materials beyond the current semester,” she notes. For students progressing through a math sequence, such as from College Algebra to Trigonometry, Professor Stewart is happy the students can still access previous course materials online. “This kind of long-term access is not something I’ve seen with other platforms,” she says. Professor Stewart encourages her students to use the “Create Your Own Practice WebTest” feature to help them focus on areas of difficulty. She values this test-prep option Hawkes provides as it allows her students to select sections they’re struggling with and quiz themselves with customized practice tests. Overall, Professor Stewart highly recommends Hawkes Learning for its comprehensive platform, customizable learning tools, and strong support. “It can give you everything that you look for,” she concludes. Ready to learn more about Hawkes Learning? Explore Hawkes’ materials here!
February 27, 2025
Sheri Stewart, a lecturer at Prairie View A&M University, has found Hawkes...
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Professor Kathie Lennertz teaches her Math 250 courses at Fort Hays State University with Hawkes Learning’s Discovering Statistics and Data, 3rd Edition materials. Before Hawkes, my students would not do enough homework to be able to master the material. They would just make a quick pass at the assignment and move on even though many would have a section score like “2 out of 14 correct.” This contributed to a poor homework score, which frequently led to a poor exam score and a poor course grade. Something had to be done to compel students to spend more time, effort, and attention to actually being able to learn concepts deeply enough to correctly solve a wide range of problems. Also, my students need course materials and technical support that take into account the needs of fully online students, most of whom are working adults. "The mastery-based assignment certification is a game-changer." I set mine to 80%, which requires a strong performance from the student without the burden of perfection. Having the relevant section materials right there in Learn gives them easy access to the book while they are working on problems. In addition, the Practice section has an amazingly large set of problems. This is especially good for difficult concepts like the Central Limit Theorem. Practice makes better, and the students need to practice. Most of the concepts are strange and new to them, so having lots of directed practice with concept-based feedback and the new AI-generated tutor is necessary. This puts the student in charge of his or her own learning, which will be a huge help to each of them later in life. They also benefit greatly from an excellent book written by a statistician like Dr. Hawkes. Statistics is a separate subject from mathematics with its own nomenclature. The book includes a large number of real-world examples from many different areas of human life. Since my students come from many different programs of major study, it gives each of them examples and problems of the sort they might find in their profession. The students demonstrate FAR greater engagement in the course. They dig into the concepts, and most are able to apply the material to their own lives. Most seem more satisfied with their course experience. I also get a lot fewer complaints about the course and some more compliments. The grades in my classes are higher too. Thus, fewer students have to repeat the course. My department likes that, the students like that, and I like that. Everybody wins. The Hawkes system helps my students learn better and have greater success in the course. They go through less “agony” during the semester. The system and I have become partners in helping students learn. The awesome customer service is a real benefit to me and my students. We know that the reps and tech staff are there for us.
February 18, 2025
Professor Kathie Lennertz teaches her Math 250 courses at Fort Hays State...
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A Hawkes Instructor Spotlight: Dr. Hillary VanSpronsen of Maine Maritime Academy We are delighted to spotlight Dr. Hillary VanSpronsen, a dedicated and passionate educator who teaches at Maine Maritime Academy. Dr. VanSpronsen, who primarily teaches precalculus and calculus courses, has been using the Hawkes Learning platform since 2019 to help foster student success. One of our Hawkes Student Ambassadors, Orion Tevanian, interviewed Dr. VanSpronsen to discuss her teaching philosophy, how she incorporates Hawkes into her courses, and her thoughts on the platform’s mastery-based approach. Read along to learn more about Dr. VanSpronsen’s Hawkes experience. A Diverse Approach to Teaching Dr. VanSpronsen teaches several versions of precalculus, including classes with varying speeds and content, such as business math and trigonometry. This semester, she is also using Hawkes’ Single Variable Calculus with Early Transcendentals for her Calculus II course. Having worked with different textbooks and learning tools over the years, Dr. VanSpronsen has found that Hawkes offers the flexibility and support her students need. “I’ve been using Hawkes since 2019 at a previous institution, and I’ve used it in various forms, mostly for precalculus,” she said. “It’s been a great experience.” The Best Part of Teaching: Student Connection When asked about her favorite aspect of teaching, Dr. VanSpronsen highlighted the connection she builds with her students. “My students are absolutely the favorite part of my day. Going into teaching is not a drain; it fills my cup,” she shared. She enjoys engaging with her students both inside and outside the classroom. “I love talking with them, joking with them, and teaching them,” she added. “There is nothing that they could tell me that would delight me more than to say at the end of the semester that they liked my class and they potentially have a different view of math.” Why the Mastery-Based Approach Works Dr. VanSpronsen told us that she has used nearly every online homework system available over the last 20 years. One of the standout features of Hawkes that Dr. VanSpronsen appreciates is the platform’s mastery-based approach. Unlike traditional methods that focus purely on right or wrong answers, Hawkes’ Learn, Practice, Certify model encourages students to truly master the material, helping them build a solid foundation for future learning. She appreciates that Hawkes allows her the flexibility to adjust the mastery threshold for her classes. The Importance of Practice and Tools Dr. VanSpronsen’s teaching philosophy centers on the importance of practice and using all available resources to succeed. She encourages her students to take advantage of the tools provided in Hawkes, including video explanations, the textbook, and built-in help features. By giving students the opportunity to practice, review, and learn at their own pace, Dr. VanSpronsen helps them gain the confidence they need to succeed in math. Dr. VanSpronsen’s approach to teaching, combined with the support of Hawkes, empowers students to not only excel in her courses but also to build confidence in their mathematical abilities for years to come. At the heart of Dr. VanSpronsen’s teaching philosophy is a belief in her students’ ability to succeed. She strives to create a classroom environment that fosters both academic growth and personal development. “I believe all students are capable of doing math,” she said. “They just need the right coaching, the right materials, and the right mindset.”
As Professor Neal Chambliss began his second year as an instructor at Calhoun Community College, as well as his second year using the Hawkes Learning online learning platform and textbook, he reflected on the experience he’s had so far. Mainly due to the support he has received from the Hawkes Customer Success Specialists, he describes his experience as being overwhelmingly positive. “I have encountered one thing that they have completely undersold, however: how easy it is to update due dates for a new term. This is my first opportunity to work with a class that I am teaching that I have already had set up. Everything that I did last year was building something new, and the Hawkes rep was ever so helpful and responsive in getting that going. This Fall I have the same class as last year and will be using the same assignments and basically everything that I already had set up." From previous experiences, when it was time to update the same course for the next semester, Professor Chambliss had allotted a fair amount of time to make those changes to have everything ready for his students. That’s when he realized that the amount of time he had set aside wasn’t necessary, and the Hawkes Learning platform made it as easy as 1, 2, 3. In his own words, Professor Chambliss stated, “I seriously think it was three clicks. If it was not exactly three, it was not many more. I was able to just take the previous due dates and move them ALL forward by the same amount of days, which just makes so much sense, of course, but I would not have thought of it ahead of time. This one thing alone should be a big selling point for the software – in big flashing letters on the website somewhere.” Needless to say, Professor Chambliss is a fan of the user-friendly features of the Hawkes Learning platform. “Bottom line: I really appreciate Hawkes’ awesome customer service in general, and this feature in particular."
July 24, 2024
As Professor Neal Chambliss began his second year as an instructor at Calhoun...
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Highlights & Overview: Of students who passed the course, 100% scored 70% or more on the homework. Of students who passed the course, 91% scored 80% or more on the homework. For students who received less than a C, their average homework score was 55.56%. Of students who failed the course, the average homework score was 31%. For students who earned a final grade of 90 or better, their average homework score was 99%. This case study explores the link between time invested in homework and overall course success. By analyzing the homework scores and final grades, we can identify significant patterns that underline the importance of consistent homework performance. Background & Context This study analyzes Dr. Herb Baum’s use of Hawkes Learning’s course materials at Guilford College during the Spring 2024 term. Dr. Baum uses Hawkes’ Beginning Statistics in his Math112 Elementary Statistics course which is facilitated in a lecture format. He has been using Hawkes’ materials since 2018 to administer his homework lessons, midterms, and final exams. He also utilizes Hawkes’ Canvas synchronization option, providing an easy grade transfer portal while also streamlining the student sign-in process. When asked about his favorite Hawkes features, Dr. Baum reports Hawkes’ renowned Customer Support Team and the intuitive Practice mode in the student platform. Dr. Baum also shares that Hawkes’ grading system in the Instructor Platform has been very beneficial. This study was conducted with the assumption that students must have a C or above to “pass” the course and move on to the next course. At Guilford College, a “C” is equal to or greater than a final grade of 72. A final score of 55 or below indicates a failing grade in the course. With Dr. Baum’s custom course settings, students receive 100% for submitting their Certify assignments on time, 75% if it is up to two weeks late, and 0 thereafter. Data Highlights MATH112 Hawkes Product Used: 3rd Edition Beginning Statistics This scatter plot demonstrates a strong positive correlation (R² = 0.7975) between students’ homework scores and their final grades. The upward trend indicates that higher homework performance is generally associated with better course outcomes, especially with higher homework scores. Additional data analysis beyond this graph further illustrates a clear relationship between homework completion and overall success in the course, providing more detailed insights into performance thresholds and grade distributions. Homework Performance and Passing the Course 100% of students who passed the course scored 70% or more on their homework. 91% of students who passed the course scored 80% or more on their homework. Homework Performance and Lower Grades Students who received less than a C had an average homework score of 55.56%. Students who failed the course had an average homework score of 31%. Homework Performance and High Achievement Students who earned a final grade of 90 or better had an average homework score of 99%. Analysis While correlation does not necessarily equate to causation, the data demonstrates a strong trend between performance in Hawkes’ homework lessons and overall course success. Students who passed the course consistently achieved higher homework scores. The fact that every student who passed the course scored at least 70% on their homework highlights the critical threshold necessary for passing. High achievers (those earning 90 or better as a final grade) nearly perfected their homework, with an average score of 99%, indicating that top students not only complete their homework but excel in it. This is a clear reflection of Hawkes’ mastery learning approach at work. When completing a Hawkes homework lesson, the student has the opportunity to truly master the learning objectives, leading them to become test-ready. Conversely, students who received less than a C or failed the course had significantly lower homework scores, averaging from 31% to 55.56%, respectively. This suggests a clear link between poor homework performance and overall academic achievement. Conclusion The evidence presented strongly supports the notion that dedicating time and effort to homework is a key factor in academic success. Ensuring students understand the importance of homework and providing innovative interactive homework opportunities could significantly improve their overall performance in the course. The more time that students interacted with Hawkes Learning’s mastery pedagogy, their overall grade was positively impacted.
As an instructor at the University of Mississippi, I’ve integrated Hawkes into my courses, and the impact has been transformative. The intuitive interface and exceptional support from their team have streamlined my course preparation process. With just a few clicks, I can effortlessly update course curriculum, due dates, etc., which has saved me valuable time each semester. Mastery Learning: A Student-Friendly Approach Unlike other textbooks and resources I’ve used before, Hawkes offers a dynamic learning environment that engages students. Through interactive modules and real-world applications, my students develop a deeper understanding of complex concepts. The immediate feedback feature allows students to correct mistakes in real time, enhancing their learning experience. Additionally, the structured Learn, Practice, and Certify approach has significantly boosted my students’ confidence and readiness for higher-level coursework. It provides a predictable framework that supports both struggling students and those seeking to excel. Course Management Made Simple In my courses, I use the Question Builder tool extensively. This allows me to customize questions into a format that I want. It is great for building in partial credit for tests, while still requiring students to get answers completely correct on homework. Further, the review-by-question feature saves me a lot of time in my large courses. It is not uncommon for me to have 500 students each semester. With the review by question feature, I don’t need to look at answers that are already correct and I can be more consistent in my partial credit policy. Our tests are administered in a computer lab, and the questions are in a random order for each student. However, when grading, the questions can be sorted into assignment order. We can grade all of the “question number one” (referring to the assignment order) for all students, and then all of “question number two” for all students, etc. I would estimate that this feature saves me somewhere between 50 to 75% of the time I would previously spend grading each individual student’s test for partial credit. Hawkes has not only enriched my teaching experience but also enabled my students to achieve higher levels of engagement and success in their courses. It’s truly a game-changer in fostering a supportive and effective learning environment. Robert Hunt, Senior Lecturer of Mathematics and Mathematics Lab Administrator at the University of Mississippi Robert has taught with Hawkes Learning’s materials in his classroom for many years. Throughout the years, Professor Hunt has taught with Mathematics with Applications for Business and Social Sciences, Essential Calculus, College Algebra, and Beginning Statistics. Robert is married and has two kids; as a family, they enjoy traveling and attending sporting events together. Robert serves as a Hawkes Faculty Consultant, providing his expertise to new and returning Hawkes instructors. To learn more about Robert, check out his Instructor Spotlight!
July 17, 2024
As an instructor at the University of Mississippi, I’ve integrated Hawkes into...
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Courses: Introductory Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, & College Algebra Course Type: Supplement to lecture Quick Stats: 30% Increase in Students Earning a C of Better Before using Hawkes, only 58% of students earned a C or better in the course, compared to 88% with the use of Hawkes. 20% Increase in Completion Rate The completion rate in College Algebra increased from 60% to 80% with the implementation of Hawkes. 23% Average Decrease in DFW Rate Introductory algebra DFW rate decreased 24%. Intermediate algebra DFW rate decreased 18%. College algebra DFW rate decreased 26%. At Arkansas State University, 39.6% of all first-time students are unprepared for college-level mathematics. Due to the large influx of students with developmental math needs, the math department redesigned developmental courses in order to increase success rates and standardize instruction. Teaching and learning took place in a lab setting. All lectures were available for students to review. Students were required to complete Hawkes certifications in order to take each exam.
July 1, 2024
Courses: Introductory Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, & College Algebra
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Professor Andrew Borne, Minnesota Virtual Academy When Andrew Borne was asked to launch a new college-level, dual-credit statistics course for Minnesota Virtual Academy, he had no idea where to begin. But he knew one thing for sure: the course needed to be rigorous, accessible, and (above all) ready fast. Title & Course: Beginning Statistics, 3rd Edition – College Statistics Initially, Andrew was worried that adopting a new platform would create more problems than solutions. As an online school, his students already faced enough digital hurdles. “I was very concerned that it would be difficult to learn and manage. I was concerned it would be yet another technology hurdle my students would need to endure rather than being focused on the course content.” To his relief, Andrew Borne found that Hawkes was built with instructor needs in mind. The course setup took less than an hour, and the tools provided—including account access, an online textbook, and printed materials—made the process seamless. “I needed a high-quality college course up and running quick. That’s what I got. The students had NO difficulties.” One feature that stood out to Professor Borne was the ability to view the course as a student, offering full transparency into the learning experience. “I can actually see for myself how the pacing works—and verify the practice and assessments are fair.” Beyond the platform itself, Andrew emphasizes the exceptional customer support that came with it. “During business hours, I can phone in for a question, and I reach a human that is smart and knows how to answer my questions or fix my issue.” "The Customer Service was uncommonly awesome." For instructors looking for a flexible, well-supported, and easy-to-implement course solution—especially under tight timelines—Andrew says it best: “Quizzes, tests, extra content… all there and with flexibility to teach it how I wanted to teach it with the appropriate rigor.”
June 19, 2024
Title & Course: Beginning Statistics, 3rd Edition – College Statistics
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Course: Intermediate Algebra Quick Stats: 86% of students surveyed prefer Hawkes to alternative learning programs. Professor Marjorie Johnson is an instructor at Midway University and uses Hawkes’ Intermediate Algebra software in her Math135 course. Professor Johnson has described Hawkes as easy to use among for diverse groups of of learners. She was glad that the system was easy to learn, allowing her to quickly assist her students with learning how to navigate the platform. She and her students appreciate how Hawkes provides multiple resources on the same webpage through the homework’s Learn, Practice, Certify sequence. Through Hawkes’ straightforward layout, she has found that the students can jump straight into learning the content versus learning a complicated homework system, avoiding frustration and increasing motivation. Professor Johnson also reported that the instructor platform is equally easy to use, resulting in less time building her courses and more time focusing on students’ needs like creating tailored assessments and lessons. “Hawkes Learning has made the online learning experience streamlined and easy for both instructors and students.” Professor Johnson surveyed some of her students who had used learning programs other than Hawkes Learning. 86% of students surveyed prefer Hawkes to alternative learning programs. From this survey, students reported experiencing: Fewer technical issues Increased accessibility by offering student-friendly pricing Better instructional videos in the software A more intuitive, easy-to-navigate platform “My experience has been excellent for Hawkes Learning. I even requested that if I teach a course that does not use Hawkes Learning, I can switch to Hawkes Learning. The customer service is better than any I have experienced. I have a dedicated Customer Service Specialist, Marissa Maffei, who responds quickly when I have a question. She has never let me down!" Professor Marjorie Johnson
May 9, 2024
Course: Intermediate Algebra Quick Stats: 86% of students surveyed prefer...
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Highlights & Overview: MAT2501 showed a 20% increase in the number of students that passed the course YoY, MAT1100 exhibited a 21% increase YoY, and MAT1000 maintained a consistent 83% pass rate. Students who passed MAT1100 and MAT2501 spent an average of 2,097 minutes in Learn, Practice, and Certify – an average of 210 minutes per week, or 30 minutes per day, across the 10-week semester. Students who passed MAT1000 spent an average of 962 minutes in Learn, Practice, and Certify – an average of 192 minutes per week, or 27 minutes per day, across the 5-week course. This study analyzes South College professor Chris Garner’s experience using Hawkes Learning’s course materials. It specifically examines Professor Garner’s course data across three courses– Mathematical Concepts and Applications (MAT1000), College Algebra (MAT1100), and Statistics (MAT2501)–emphasizing pass/fail and the relationship between these grades and students’ time invested in Hawkes Learning’s student software. Background South College initiated a pilot program for courseware in Spring 2021, with Hawkes Learning’s Beginning Statistics. This successful pilot, marked by steady growth and consistent passing rates in Beginning Statistics courses, led to the adoption of three Hawkes titles across the math department at South College in Fall 2021: Beginning Statistics, Introductory & Intermediate Algebra, and Preparation for College Mathematics. In the context of this study, students earning letter grades of A, B, or C are considered to have passed, whereas those receiving a grade of D or F are classified as failed. A, B, C Rate Comparison Statistics (MAT2501) Hawkes Product Used: 3rd Edition Beginning Statistics As illustrated in the chart above, Garner’s MAT2501 section exhibited a remarkable 20% rise in the number of students passing year over year (YoY) (21-22 vs 22-23 academic years) following the adoption of Hawkes. This increase not only reflects a continuous upward trend in the number of passing students but also demonstrates consistent growth among his students. College Algebra (MAT1100) Hawkes Product Used: Introductory & Intermediate Algebra Likewise, we observed consistent success and growth in the total number of students passing Garner’s MAT1100 course with the integration of Hawkes courseware. From the academic year 21-22 to 22-23, there was a 21% increase in the number of students passing YoY. Mathematical Concepts and Applications (MAT1000) Hawkes Product Used: 2nd Edition, Preparation for College Mathematics This course’s analysis involves a considerably smaller enrollment size compared to Garner’s higher-level courses, featuring only 87 and 40 students in each respective academic year. Evaluating this data from a holistic perspective from adoption through the Fall 2023 term indicates a consistent 83% pass rate among all students in this developmental-level course. Investigating Time Spent When investigating trends in student performance as it relates to *time spent in the courseware, the data reveals a direct relationship between the time spent in the Learn and Practice modes and pass rates. Notably, students who received failing grades (D or F) generally invested significantly less time in the software compared to their successful counterparts, underscoring the proven pedagogical design of our 3-step approach to mastery; when ample time is dedicated to genuine engagement and practice with the course material, students generally exhibit increased understanding and retention of course content, and subsequently, higher final grades, as demonstrated in the chart below. South College’s partnership with Hawkes Learning has resulted in sustained success and improved passing rates. The strategic adoption of Beginning Statistics, Introductory and Intermediate Algebra, and Preparation for College Mathematics, coupled with an emphasis on students spending more time in Learn and Practice, has proven to be a successful formula for student success as determined by their final grades. This study suggests that Hawkes’ mastery-based courseware, focusing on student engagement and time investment, can yield significant improvements in academic outcomes. *“Time spent” is measured by the duration a particular page in Learn or Practice remains on the screen, which may not precisely reflect the actual time spent interacting with the content. This variable is presumed to account for outliers in the chart, where some students exhibit high recorded ‘time spent’ without achieving the expected rate of success.
January 2, 2024
Highlights & Overview: MAT2501 showed a 20% increase in the number of students...
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Courses: Basic Mathematics & Introductory Algebra Course Type: Modular-Emporium Quick Stats: Overall, GCC saw a 32% Increase in students scoring between 80–100% on the final exam. Before using Hawkes, 33% of students in Basic Mathematics scored between 80-100% on the final exam, compared to 69% with the use of Hawkes. Before using Hawkes, 34% of students in Introductory Algebra scored between 80-100% on the final exam, compared to 63% with the use of Hawkes. Genesee Community College’s implementation of a Developmental Math Emporium for MAT 091 and MAT 092 was facilitated by a Changing the Equation grant through the National Center for Academic Transformation (NCAT). For the redesign, faculty chose Hawkes Learning, a mastery-based learning system used to engage students in the learning process with error-specific feedback. With customized assistance replacing the generic lecture, instructors began to notice an increase in student success. Instructors conducted a study to assess two major categories: achievement of student learning outcomes and course completion rates.
July 21, 2022
Courses: Basic Mathematics & Introductory Algebra Course Type: Modular-Emporium...
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Courses: Elementary Statistical Methods MATH 1342 Course Type: Corequisite Lecture Quick Stats: 62% decrease in withdrawals 33% of students finished with an A 175% increase in passing rates After seeing increased student success in her curriculum-level statistics course at Dallas College, Professor Yolanda Manzano implemented Hawkes Learning’s Beginning Statistics courseware in her corequisite lecture course as well. Students that are deemed unprepared for curriculum-level statistics are placed in a corequisite course where they receive additional instruction on prerequisite skills outside of the traditional curriculum-level course with their peers. Because these classes are corequisites, they meet for three hours twice a week. By the end of fall 2021, 66% of students finished with a C or above compared to the 24% of students receiving a C or above using Carnegie Math Pathways (WestEd) in the fall of 2019. 43% more students passed the course using Hawkes compared to those using the competitor product. The fall 2021 class also saw a significant 62% decrease in the number of students who decided to withdraw from this course. When asked about students’ success using Hawkes, Professor Manzano highlighted the mastery learning pedagogy of the software, which encourages students to continue working through the material and “not settle for a low score”. She finds the software to be user-friendly and also noted the responsive and friendly tech support team that she and her students have experienced while working with Hawkes Learning. “…I like to use Chapter Projects as classroom activities… I love these because they reinforce concepts in a way that extends their knowledge by applying it in different scenarios. Making this connection is important to me because it helps them to retain information and use statistical concepts in their daily lives.” –Professor Yolanda Manzano
April 20, 2022
Courses: Elementary Statistical Methods MATH 1342 Course Type: Corequisite...
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Our student training videos are designed to give students an introduction to the Hawkes’ student learning platform. Each session focuses on: How to setup a Hawkes account How to navigate within the platform How to complete assignments An overview of helpful tools available for students to use throughout the term. *Please note that these sessions will NOT be covering account creation or LMS integrations. If you log in to our software via LMS, please click here to find directions for navigation. Math Student Training English Composition Student Training Psychology Student Training Economics Student Training Student Best Practices As always, students can contact our support team for assistance. Our chat support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. support@hawkeslearning.com www.hawkeslearning.com/support hawkeslearning.com/chat
January 27, 2022
Our student training videos are designed to give students an introduction to...
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Courses: General Math Problem Solving, Intermediate Algebra, College Algebra, Precalculus, and Calculus Course Type: Computer Lab, Self-Paced Overview: “I think using Hawkes Learning is a fantastic opportunity for all students to learn and achieve at their own pace. Teachers can add in their own activities and resources to continue to aid students in enhancing their math abilities. The friendliness of the Hawkes team is second to none. Patient, informative, and knowledgeable are all excellent qualities possessed by the Hawkes family.” —Kim Halsey Kim Halsey has been using Hawkes Learning’s courseware at Bath County High School since 2009. Her class is part of Morehead State University’s Dual Enrollment Program, which offers high school students college credit. From the first time she saw the courseware, Kim knew she wanted to “use it in every class possible.” Read more of Kim’s experience below! Testimonial: “When I first started using Hawkes, I switched off days between lecture and lab. This was harder to manage because every student worked at a different pace. All my classes now meet in a computer lab, and I may have up to six classes meeting at the same time. Each is self-paced, and I do one-on-one instruction to help students with any questions. I also encourage them to ask each other questions and talk about the math. I love the self-paced atmosphere Hawkes allows. The Learn and Practice sections offer instant feedback and flexibility and help students focus on their weak areas. The most beneficial part for students is that the Certify section is mastery-based. This is very important! It forces students to work hard to learn the material and not just memorize problem types. “As an instructor, I like the grade book and the ease of set up for the classes overall. It is very user-friendly, and I can tell at a quick glance what part of the Learning Path a student is on. I also love the friendly people at Hawkes. They are very knowledgeable and patient with phone calls. You can almost hear them smiling at you through the phone.”
July 21, 2021
Courses: General Math Problem Solving, Intermediate Algebra, College Algebra,...
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Course: English Composition Course Type: Supplement to Lecture and Hybrid Sections “I was immediately drawn to the customer service. Whenever there is an issue, and there aren’t many, the Hawkes support teams can resolve it within minutes. As for the product, I think it makes sense to students, and it’s comfortable yet challenging for them to use.” “I really enjoy using Hawkes; both the product and service are phenomenal. I think my students get a lot out of it.” Professor Nick Brittin at Lake Michigan College has been using Hawkes Learning’s English Composition since 2016 in both his face-to-face and hybrid sections. Brittin chose to incorporate this software in his courses because he wanted to spend more time with students developing their ideas and their writing. By assigning homework through Hawkes, he uses less class time lecturing and more time on collaboration, essay development, revision, and in-depth class discussions. Brittin believes the mastery-based approach of Hawkes benefits students, who are able to learn at a “personalized pace, so they aren’t held back by the rigidity of a traditional content structure.” He has observed how some students move through the material quickly, while others need to spend more time with the lesson content before mastering it. Each student has access to interactive eBook content in the software’s Learn mode, which includes videos and relates lessons to students’ personal, professional, and academic lives. The Practice mode contains questions with detailed tutorials and step-by-step, error-specific feedback for common mistakes. The Certify mode acts as the homework that students must master at an 80% proficiency level to receive full credit for each assignment. With this system and their valuable class time, students master the foundational content of a composition course while deepening the writing skills that they can apply to any college course.
February 28, 2020
Course: English Composition Course Type: Supplement to Lecture and Hybrid...
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Course: Developmental Mathematics Course Type: Traditional lecture and flipped classroom – both with Hawkes online homework Quick Stats: When students completed at least 80% of the homework, they had a 93% chance of passing the course. When students completed less than 80% of the homework, they had a 28% chance of passing. In spring 2015, Shawnee State University’s Developmental Mathematics faculty adopted Hawkes Learning’s Foundations of Mathematics workbook and online courseware in MATH 0099: Fundamental Math, Math 0101: Basic Algebra with Geometry & Applications, and Math 0102: Intermediate Algebra & Applications. The faculty chose these materials because the workbook’s beginning chapters are non-STEM, whereas the subsequent chapters focus on STEM-related topics. The explanations provide conceptual understanding, and the application questions keep students engaged. All instructors required students to complete homework within Hawkes’ online system. Most instructors assigned homework as 20% of the final grade; however, it ranged from 15% to 25%. The faculty saw a correlation between homework completion and passing the overall course. When students completed at least 80% of the assigned homework, they had a 93% chance of passing the course. When students did less than 80% of the homework, they only had a 28% chance of passing.
December 13, 2019
Course: Developmental Mathematics Course Type: Traditional lecture and flipped...
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Course: Rhetoric and Composition (ENGL 1101) Course Type: Supplement to Lecture Quick Stats: The average final grade for the class was 89.35%. Student performance on the grammar diagnostic test (taken at both the start and end of the semester) improved by an average of 24.7%. In fall 2018, students in Dr. Stephen Whited’s Rhetoric and Composition course began using Hawkes Learning’s Foundations of English software. The instructor chose this title for its clean format and ease of use. He wanted to ensure students received an organized review of grammar and mechanics to become more prepared for class. At the beginning of the semester, students were assigned Hawkes’ pre-created grammar diagnostic to identify specific areas of weakness and receive a customized set of homework lessons based on individual results. During the 16-week course, students completed two to three Hawkes assignments per week. Assignments ranged from five to 15 questions, depending on the complexity of each section. This self-directed homework accounted for 30% of students’ overall grades. Students then completed the grammar diagnostic at the end of the semester to assess how much their grammar skills improved. After Hawkes was implemented, students had more time to discuss concepts and ideas in class, as well as participate in more group writing experiences, rather than asking the instructor for help on remedial topics. Additionally, the instructor observed fewer basic errors on student papers. The writing practice and topics learned throughout the course had a lasting positive effect on students outside of the English classroom. Bar graph of Average Grade on Grammar Diagnostic. The pre-test average was 55.97%, while the post-test was 80.67%. Bar graph of Course Letter Grade Distribution. 60% of students received an A; 33.33% received a B; 0% a C; 6.67% a D; and 0% an F.
September 30, 2019
Course: Rhetoric and Composition (ENGL 1101) Course Type: Supplement to Lecture...
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Courses: English Composition I and II Course Type: Corequisite, Online The English Department at Big Sandy Community and Technical College – Pikeville Campus found that many students entering English Composition needed additional support and remediation to target reading and writing skill gaps. So, in addition to offering ENG 101, the department offers a section of this course with supplemental instruction. Testimonial: Professor Rebecca Mullins teaches online and in-person sections of ENG 101, ENG 101S, and ENG 102. She chose to incorporate Hawkes Learning’s English Composition with Integrated Review courseware in each course because of the publisher’s quality support, the platform’s user-friendly interface, its ability to offer single sign-on and sync grades with Blackboard, and its flexible nature in accommodating the needs of her different course structures. The supplemental section is offered to students with lower placement scores. At the beginning of the semester, students complete a pre-created grammar diagnostic test within the courseware. This 50-question assessment identifies areas of proficiency and specific knowledge gaps and creates a customized curriculum for each student. Students can place out of certain learning modules in the Hawkes’ courseware based on their performance. Students are also required to meet with the instructor at least twice a semester. They can gain bonus points by completing four additional lesson modules to help remedy skill gaps and prepare them for success in ENG 102. Quick Quotes: “Students who worked on the lessons (supplemental and not supplemental) remarked how beneficial they felt the lessons were and how well they tied to my curriculum…They also stated that they felt this freed us up to focus more on actual writing and writing strategies during our face-to-face time; therefore, they were able to become more aware and confident of who they were as writers and how effective writing would benefit their futures.” —Professor Rebecca Mullins “This system allowed me to get ideas and review my own story for any errors before turning in a full draft. With the full draft system, I certainly appreciated the rewrite option. I always took this opportunity. Even if my score was fine, I would still go back and revise to know what I did incorrectly.” —Student
June 25, 2019
Courses: English Composition I and II Course Type: Corequisite, Online The...
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Courses: Prealgebra, Elementary Algebra, and Intermediate Algebra Course Type: Modified Emporium Model with Computer-Based Learning Quick Stat: The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus increased its overall student success in developmental math as much as 27% by implementing a course redesign using Hawkes. Background & Overview Looking to increase success, attendance, and flexibility, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus chose to implement a course redesign for three of its developmental math courses. This sequence was overhauled from lecture-based courses using MyLab Math to a modified emporium model using Hawkes Learning. The Hawkes platform fit the redesign goals to give students the flexibility to learn using their preferred style, make students responsible for managing the pace of their learning, and encourage mastery of the material. Students are required to attend class in the new emporium model. There, they are able to move through the material as quickly as they wish, allowing them to easily progress past sections they know and spend time filling knowledge gaps. Classes do not include any lecture. Instead, students use the Learn mode in Hawkes, including the instructor-made videos, to master lessons and complete the coursework. Instructor support is available for individual students who need help mastering a concept or working out a problem as they practice. Open labs are offered three days a week for additional support. Results The redesign implementation using Hawkes has improved success in these developmental math courses, as well as helped students pass the subsequent course, College Algebra. The university now has more flexibility to offer multiple courses at the same time, increasing overall course offerings per semester. Additionally, this model has helped provide more student ownership of learning, more collaboration among students, and a better understanding of individual student needs.
February 27, 2019
Courses: Prealgebra, Elementary Algebra, and Intermediate Algebra Course Type:...
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Course: Enhanced English Composition Course Type: Supplement to lecture Quick Stat: During the first semester using Hawkes, a pilot section at Rowan College at Gloucester County boosted the number of students passing Corequisite English Composition by 28 percent. Background In fall 2018, the faculty at Rowan College at Gloucester County were looking to offer something more expansive than the McGraw-Hill textbook (Clouse) that was being used for corequisite English Composition. Hawkes’ course, English Composition, “felt like a welcome change.” Professor Emily Maddox piloted Hawkes in her classroom with great success, helping a dramatically larger percentage of students pass the course and move towards graduation. Results Enhanced English Composition I at Rowan College is a course that accelerates developmental writing by “catching students up” in a 4-credit version of English Composition I. The goal is for students to move into English Composition II the following semester and work seamlessly alongside peers who had been enrolled in the regular 3-credit English Composition I. Using the Hawkes platform, students have at their disposal a textbook, online courseware, and a supplemental Reading & Writing Handbook that contains writing, research, grammar, and style tips. By requiring online homework throughout the semester, students were held accountable for mastering the material and using the textbook effectively. It also made class discussions more lively and allowed for interactive classroom elements using the Hawkes courseware. “I’m thrilled to have so many students want to talk to me about the course. I’ve never had so many students stay after class or visit me in my office.” —Emily Maddox
February 26, 2019
Course: Enhanced English Composition Course Type: Supplement to lecture Quick...
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Courses: College Algebra and Elementary Statistics Course Type: Corequisite Math Pathways Navarro College wanted to reduce the amount of time required for students needing remediation to complete developmental level math courses and move them more quickly into credit bearing courses. A shorter development sequence gives students an increased chance of completing gateway courses and lowers their costs. To do this, faculty sought to align the curriculum with student’s needs thereby improving success. Algebraic Pathway: Students can shorten developmental course work from four semesters to two. Non-Algebraic Pathway: Students can shorten developmental course work from three semesters to two. A “boot camp” course was designed to fast track students through developmental math. This course was tailored specifically to the needs of the individual student. Initial placement was based off the Texas state placement assessment. Course work consisted of a diagnostic exam that allowed students to exempt specific sections. Students only completed necessary lessons and were given individualized instruction through small group lectures, instructor-created videos, and instructor-supported practice. Post-tests were then given to certify passing. In the semester following boot camp, students were placed into a corequisite course. The corequisite course consisted of a full credit bearing course and a support lab section. The lab provided extra tutoring and just-in-time remediation to boot camp students. Using this format, in addition to a shortened sequence, instructors saw increased student retention and persistence.
November 26, 2018
Courses: College Algebra and Elementary Statistics Course Type: Corequisite...
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Course: Foundations for Quantitative Reasoning Course Type: Supplement to Lecture Quick Stats: In summer 2016, students who completed more than 80% of their Hawkes homework saw a 17% increase in final scores than their peers. The following summer, students who finished more than 80% of their homework saw a 24% increase in final scores than those who did not. ABC grades continue to rise after the adoption of Hawkes, with 62.5% of students achieving ABC grades in summer 2016, and 72.5% in summer 2017. In summer 2016, Lorain County Community College implemented Hawkes Learning’s Foundations of Mathematics courseware into MTHM 058: Foundations for Quantitative Reasoning. This course meets the needs of students in a non-engineering degree track. One of the goals of the course is to reduce the number of developmental math courses needed for students to achieve college-level status. All sections meet three days a week for this eight-week summer course. It is lecture-based with Hawkes lessons assigned as homework. Students have improved their ability to prepare and study their math coursework by using the courseware’s three-mode Learning Path. By identifying their strengths and weaknesses through the Learn, Practice, and Certify modes, students can create their own practice tests to improve specific areas of study. The instructor uses the PowerPoint presentations available on the Hawkes website. These slides serve as a guide for lecture and are shared with students to reinforce content gaps during class or content missed during an absence. Two bar graphs are shown. The first is titled Summer 2016, and the second is titled Summer 2017. Both compare the average percentage grade for students who completed less than 80% of their homework and those who completed more than 80% of their homework. The average grades for quizzes, exams, and final grades are higher for students who completed more than 80% of their homework.
August 7, 2018
Course: Foundations for Quantitative Reasoning Course Type: Supplement to...
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Course: COMM 90: Integrated Communication Arts and Study Skills Course Type: Self-paced, lab setting Quick Stats: 77% of students who completed COMM 90 in one academic year are on track to graduate. Successful COMM 90 students had a 90% retention rate from fall ’15 to fall ’16. Background & Overview Crowder College needed a new approach to helping first-semester freshmen who are not college-ready to succeed. After reviewing state and national recommendations, the college created COMM 90, an integrated communications and study skills course for at-risk students to develop their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills while also building general study skills and accessing campus resources. The course consists of eight-week sessions in a self-paced, modularized format. The instructor uses Hawkes Learning’s Foundations of English courseware, writing prompts, PowerPoints, and vocabulary lessons. Each of the 17 modules includes several online lessons in Hawkes. Results The department has observed higher pass and retention rates. The at-risk students who completed COMM 90 had nearly identical passing rates in English 101 compared to students who were directly placed into the credit-bearing course. Furthermore, the majority of students surveyed felt more confident in their reading and writing abilities. They felt more prepared for college because of the skills they’ve gained from the course.
August 17, 2017
Course: COMM 90: Integrated Communication Arts and Study Skills Course Type:...
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Courses: Introductory Algebra & Intermediate Algebra Course Type: Online, Self-Paced Quick Stats: 41% increase in the number of students who graduated 41% increase in students who graduated after passing a developmental math course using Hawkes. This contributed to a 21% increase in the total number of students who graduated the university. 92% success rate in self-paced courses using Hawkes The success rate for all courses using Hawkes at the university was 88%. More specifically, the success rate for the redesigned self-paced courses was 92%. To provide additional options for students, online, self-paced developmental math courses were designed. Student success in these courses and in subsequent courses was tracked. To address student questions in this online format, the discussion board and other communication tools within Hawkes software were utilized. Students Successful in Follow-Up Courses “I really think that the Hawkes program is wonderful. I have always been a C student in math until this program & now I am an A student!” —Intermediate Algebra Student
October 20, 2015
Courses: Introductory Algebra & Intermediate Algebra Course Type: Online,...
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Course: Prealgebra & Introductory Algebra Course Type: Modular-Emporium Quick Stats: Increase in Student Performance on Common Exam Questions Redesign students outperformed traditional students on 39 of 46 common exam questions. 54% average final exam score before redesign 74% average final exam score using Hawkes Half of the students entering Kirkwood Community College are enrolled in Developmental Mathematics. Since there is no one size fits all solution to student learning, instructors were eager to find a way to meet student learning objectives for the largest number of students. This led instructors at Kirkwood to redesign the way their courses were taught. Using the Emporium-Modular course structure as defined by NCAT, Kirkwood started their redesign in Spring 2011 with 130 students. In the Fall it grew to 289 students in face-to-face classes and 417 students in distance-learning courses. The new course structure consists of 13 individually paced modules with three exit points determined by the student’s pathway. Instructors used a scheduling worksheet and set goals for each student to encourage early completion and ensure success. Just-in-time teaching and the ability to monitor individual student progress have created a student-centered learning environment leading to increased performance. “I’ve taken five college math classes and this is the first time I felt like I was actually learning the material.” —Kirkwood Student
September 16, 2015
Course: Prealgebra & Introductory Algebra Course Type: Modular-Emporium Quick...
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Course: College Algebra Course Type: Computer-assisted Quick Stats: 13.6% Increase in Post-Test Scores Mean score on the post-test before adopting Hawkes was 62.2%, while the mean score after adopting Hawkes increased to 75.8%. Increase in Rate of Improvement Rate of improvement in knowledge between the pre- and post-test increased from 346% to 442% after implementing Hawkes. 44% Increase in the Number of As on Post-Test Only 23% of the students achieved an A before Hawkes, compared to 67% who achieved an A while using Hawkes. Two groups of College Algebra students were compared in order to assess objectives learned throughout the term. One group used Hawkes Learning courseware, while one used a textbook only. Both groups were given a pre-test to determine their initial knowledge base. At the end of the semester a post-test was administered to assess the rate of improvement. The pre- and post- test covered a range of 14 competencies. Post-test scores were compared for both groups of students. “My students have told me they never understood math until now. I believe that 99% of that success has to do directly with the courseware. – Kathy Malone, Instructor Post-Test Grade Comparison
September 16, 2015
Course: College Algebra Course Type: Computer-assisted Quick Stats: 13.6%...
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Course: College Algebra Course Type: Hybrid Part 1: Pearson compared to Hawkes Result: Increased ABC rate for students using Hawkes Fall 2014 84.54% of students using Hawkes earned final grade of C or better in course 77.04% of students using MyMathLab earned final grade of C or better in course Spring 2015 71.14% of students using Hawkes earned final grade of C or better in course 58.67% of students using MyMathLab earned final grade of C or better in course Result: Improved performance on learning objectives overall for students using Hawkes Total Duration of Study Students using Hawkes outperformed the students using MyMathLab on 71% of learning objectives. Hawkes students’ performance exceeded MyMathLab students’ performance by greater than 5% on 53% of learning objectives Hawkes students’ performance exceeded MyMathLab students’ performance by greater than 10% on 32% of learning objectives In the Fall of 2014, the University of Mississippi began a year-long pilot study comparing the efficacy of two courseware systems, Hawkes Learning and MyMathLab, in its College Algebra courses. Over 1,000 students were involved in the study and 50 learning objectives were measured. All sections included in this analysis were a hybrid format, with face-to-face lecture being supplemented by online homework and testing administered by Hawkes and MyMathLab outside of scheduled class meetings. Fall 2014 In the initial pilot, 97 students used Hawkes, while 636 students continued using MyMathLab. Homework: Homework was completed online in the respective software and was weighted at 16.7% of the overall grade for all sections. Lab Work: : In addition to scheduled class meetings, students spent a minimum of 50 minutes per week in the campus Mathematics Lab Testing: Four unit tests were given online using the respective software in a proctored setting in the lab. Final Exam: The final exam taken by all students was a multiple-choice paper exam generated within MyMathLab and was weighted at 33.3% of the overall grade. Spring 2015 Following the measurable success of the Hawkes courseware in the Fall, Ole Miss expanded the pilot for the Spring to include 253 students using Hawkes. The other 150 continued using MyMathLab. Homework: Homework was completed online in the respective software and was weighted at 8% of the overall grade for all sections. Lab Work: Students were required to attend the Mathematics lab each week to complete quizzes, which were administered in the respective software. Notes were allowed for quizzes, and students were allowed three attempts. Testing: Four unit tests were given online using the respective software in a proctored setting in the lab. Final Exam: In order to better measure students’ grasp of the material, final exam was changed to a free-response format. The Hawkes students took their final exams within Hawkes, while the Pearson students took their final exams within MyMathLab. The final was weighted 22% of the overall grade, or 36% if higher than the lowest unit test grade. Mean Score Comparison Final Grade Distribution Comparison Part 2: ALEKS compared to Hawkes Result: Spring 2017 Overall grades averaged 7 percentage points higher for students using Hawkes Learning compared to those using ALEKS (percentage points based on median data). Fall 2017 Overall grades averaged 5 percentage points higher for students using Hawkes Learning compared to those using ALEKS. In the spring of 2017, the University of Mississippi was awarded the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities’ (APLU) Accelerating Adoption of Adaptive Courseware Grant, and the Mathematics Department was tasked with participating in the grant across several courses. Since Hawkes Learning was not on the approved courseware list at the time, faculty elected to pilot ALEKS in several sections of College Algebra in each of the last two semesters to satisfy the terms of the grant. In each semester, student performance across the board in Hawkes Learning (homework, tests, final exam, and overall grade) was significantly better than student performance in ALEKS. Hawkes is now on the approved courseware list for the APLU grant. Due to its features such as adaptability, scaffolded learning, deep levels of interaction and specific feedback for students, learner autonomy, and customization options, Hawkes continues to be used by math faculty at the University of Mississippi.
September 3, 2015
Course: College Algebra Course Type: Hybrid Part 1: Pearson compared to Hawkes...
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Courses: Precalculus Math 1103 Course Type: Lecture and online Quick Stats: Students who completed at least 80% on their homework in Hawkes scored on average 5 percentage points higher on the final exam and almost 20 percentage points higher in the overall course. The University of North Carolina Charlotte has used Hawkes’ Precalculus curriculum in all of their Math 1103 courses since Fall 2020. Course coordinator, Professor Anna Athanasopoulou, sees first-hand the impact that Hawkes Learning’s mastery-based approach has on her students and the strong correlation between the coursework they complete in Hawkes and their final exams and overall course grades. Recent data from her Fall 2021 courses show that students who completed at least 80% of their homework in Hawkes scored on average 5 percentage points higher on the final exam and almost 20 percentage points higher in the overall course, which takes all tests throughout the term into account. “Hawkes provides excellent support.” In addition to improved scores and excellent support, professor Athanasopoulou says that she finds the software convenient, especially when reviewing homework, stating, “I can see the questions the system provides to students as homework assignments.” Using Hawkes, instructors can review exact iterations of the questions each student was asked in their assignments.
July 15, 2015
Courses: Precalculus Math 1103 Course Type: Lecture and online Quick Stats:...
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Course: Basic Mathematics Course Type: online pre-semester PREPARATORY course Quick Stats: Diagnostic Test Pass Rate Before vs. After Prep Course 61% Pass Rate on Pre-Test 95% Pass Rate on Post-Test Diagnostic Test Scores After Completing Prep Course Students’ average raw score increased by 19 points from Pre-Test Average percent score increased 13 points for class as a whole Average percent score increased 21 points for those who failed Pre-Test Shift in Grade Distribution on Diagnostic Test Pre-Test Grades: 8 out of 23 students (35%) scored above 80% 3 out of 23 students (13%) scored above 90% Post-Test Grades: 18 out of 23 students (78%) scored above 80% 13 out of 23 students (57%) scored above 90% Background & Overview During the summer of 2014, incoming students to the Public Service Management (PSM) Master’s program at The City College of New York participated in a mandatory pre-semester preparation course in basic mathematics using Hawkes Learning software. The purpose of the course was to remediate the students’ mathematics skills and prepare them for the first of three quantitative courses which constitute core requirements of the PSM program. A total of 24 admitted students participated and were assigned 32 assignments each, which needed to be completed at an 80% mastery level or higher. To accurately measure performance, all students took two diagnostic tests: a pre-test, administered at the beginning of the course, and a post-test, administered after students submitted all 32 Hawkes assignments. The tests were identical to each other, and students were not allowed to review their answers until after the course was over. Results On average, students’ raw scores increased by 19 points, representing an average increase of 13 percentage points in their percent scores. Pass rates in the pre and post-tests increased from 61% to 95%. More strikingly, the 39% who failed the pre-test experienced an average increase in their post-test of 21 percentage points. The increase experienced by this group is much higher than that experienced by the entire class, thereby indicating that this preparatory course very likely circumvented retention problems in the PSM program before students even began with their formal coursework. Based on the success of the initial pilot, the PSM program decided to implement the preparatory math course in each year thereafter.
July 15, 2015
Course: Basic Mathematics Course Type: online pre-semester PREPARATORY course...
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Course: College Algebra Course Type: Corequisite with Intermediate Algebra remediation Quick Stats: Strong correlation between coursework average and final grade The department observed a strong relationship (r=0.91) between students’ Hawkes mastery-based coursework assignment average and final grade for the course. 8.52% Increase in overall mean test scores Prior to the redesign, the overall mean test score for the course (5 tests + Final Exam) was 65.40. The overall mean test score for the new grant course was 70.97. 15.3% Increase in retention rate Developmental students who enrolled in the new corequisite grant course had a retention rate of 87.5%, while those who enrolled in the traditional developmental course had a retention rate of 72.2%. As part of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Scaling and Sustaining Success (S3) Grant project, Texas State Technical College in Waco, TX implemented a new corequisite approach to remedial education with the goal of accelerating students through the developmental sequence and reducing time to degree. With over 40% of the college’s incoming students placing into non-credit bearing math courses and high course repeat rates, developmental education had become overpopulated and often created a road block for students to graduate. The new grant course streamlined developmental students alongside college-ready students into one credit-bearing course consisting of 4 weeks of Intermediate Algebra instruction followed by 10 weeks of College Algebra instruction and a final exam. The course employed team teaching, an additional scheduled lab hour, mastery based Hawkes courseware, and just-in-time remediation in the form of peer tutors, supplemental instruction, online notes, and videos. Using both direct and indirect measures of data from the inaugural cohort, TSTC found that it was possible to successfully accelerate developmental students into a college level curriculum and that students with initial academic deficiencies could still succeed in a credit bearing course alongside college ready students. Learn More: Watch the Webinar On Demand
July 15, 2015
Course: College Algebra Course Type: Corequisite with Intermediate Algebra...
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Course: Intermediate Algebra Course Type: Supplement to lecture, Computer assisted Quick Stats: 31% Improvement in Post Test Scores Pre to Post-test Improvement Rates 31% scored 12+ points higher using Hawkes 11% scored 12+ points higher using MyMathLab 9% scored 12+ points higher using a textbook only 10% Increase in Success Rate in Follow-Up Course Success Rate in College Algebra 70% – Textbook only 72% – MyMathLab 80% – Hawkes Learning 16% of first time students at University of North Carolina-Charlotte are under prepared for college-level mathematics. No developmental courses were offered prior to 2000, resulting in a DFW rate of 33% in College Algebra alone. UNC-C took several steps to address this issue, initially by offering their first Intermediate Algebra course in the Summer of 2000. This resulted in noticeable changes in the success rate of the follow-up course, College Algebra. The second step, in Fall 2006, was to implement software. However, instructors quickly noticed a pattern. Students were scoring a 100% on the homework in the software, but lacked the fundamental understanding to perform well on exams. In the Summer of 2010, UNC-C implemented Hawkes Learning. The mastery-based homework assignments and error-specific feedback helped to accomplish the goal of improving student results and made Intermediate Algebra an effective gateway course. ABC Rate on Common Final Exam
July 15, 2015
Course: Intermediate Algebra Course Type: Supplement to lecture, Computer...
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Course: Developmental Mathematics, Beginning Algebra, & Intermediate Algebra Course Type: Supplement to lecture, online, & emporium Quick Stats: 30% Increase in Student Success Rate After Redesign The average student success rate before implementing the overall redesign was 50%. Once the course was redesigned using Hawkes, the success rate increased to 71%. Continued Success Observed Years Later The average increase in ABC grades for Hawkes courses and subsequent math courses from academic year 2009-2010 (pre-Hawkes implementation) to academic year 2015-2016 (post-Hawkes implementation) is 9%. Only 55.5% of students in MAT 109: College Algebra with Modeling received a C or higher before the department implemented Hawkes. In the 2015-2016 academic year, that percentage was 73.4%, a 24% increase. Greenville Technical College’s Mathematics Department led a large-scale redesign of its developmental mathematics courses involving more than 6,000 students after a year-long pilot study. Initially, the department chose to pilot three different courseware systems: Hawkes Learning, MyMathLab (MML), and Aleks. The pilot then continued with Hawkes and MML. After observing higher success rates and a 13.88% increase in the final exam average compared to MML, the faculty decided to move forward with Hawkes for MAT 032: Developmental Mathematics, MAT 101: Beginning Algebra, and MAT 102: Intermediate Algebra. The department continues to see success among students currently using Hawkes Learning. The Hawkes courses are prerequisites for MAT 109: College Algebra with Modeling, MAT 120: Probability and Statistics, and MAT 155: Contemporary Mathematics. Students achieve a higher success rate in these subsequent math courses now that they use Hawkes in prerequisite courses.
July 15, 2015
Course: Developmental Mathematics, Beginning Algebra, & Intermediate Algebra...
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