2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

A substantial body of literature has documented persistent challenges related to mathematical preparedness among engineering and engineering technology students, particularly in calculus and pre-calculus sequences. These challenges are frequently associated with high failure rates, delayed progression through degree programs, and attrition from engineering pathways [10], [12]. Researchers have approached this problem from multiple perspectives, including curricular reform, student-centered pedagogy, preparatory interventions, and quality-management frameworks, like Six Sigma. This paper presents first, a literature of the challenges of student mathematical preparedness and solutions and second, the attempt to implement Six Sigma principles to improve the teaching of precalculus algebra. Preliminary results include reduced
process variation and a modest decrease in DFW rates from 52% to 31% in five semesters. Finally, a discussion of the continued application of Six Sigma to precalculus and its anticipated future application to calculus.