Connecticut House Bill HB05835

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Mathematics Classes At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5835 could lead to significant adjustments in the curriculum requirements for numerous academic majors, particularly in humanities and social sciences where advanced mathematics skills may not be applicable. The proposed change could alleviate stress for students who may struggle with these requirements or have no intention of pursuing careers in mathematics-heavy fields. Additionally, it may allow educational institutions to allocate resources more effectively by focusing on core subjects relevant to students' career aspirations.

Summary

House Bill 5835 aims to amend existing statutes governing mathematics requirements for students enrolled in public institutions of higher education. Specifically, the bill seeks to eliminate the mandate for students whose academic majors do not align with industries that directly utilize advanced mathematics. This legislative change is intended to create a more flexible academic environment that acknowledges diverse educational paths and the varying relevance of mathematics across different fields of study.

Contention

There are some potential points of contention surrounding HB 5835. Supporters argue that the bill enhances educational accessibility by allowing students to focus on subjects more closely related to their chosen fields, thereby fostering better academic performance and engagement. However, opponents may raise concerns about the foundational skills that mathematics develop and the potential long-term implications for graduates entering a workforce that increasingly demands quantitative literacy. There is a concern that reducing mathematics requirements might limit students' readiness for a variety of career paths, especially those that involve critical thinking and problem-solving skills that mathematics helps cultivate.