Journal of Research in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education

Evaluating Math Competency Challenges Among Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Students: The Role of Supplemental Lab Support

Upasana Kashyap 1 * ,
Santhosh Mathew 1
1 Regis College* Corresponding Author
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Journal of Research in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, Volume 9, Issue 2, May 2026, pp. 1-14
OPEN ACCESS VIEWS: 24 DOWNLOADS: 11 Publication date: 15 May 2026
ABSTRACT
This study investigates instructional strategies to improve mathematical readiness among prospective Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) students at a private four-year university. The DMS program, an intensive, hands-on imaging discipline, requires students to demonstrate proficiency in mathematics as part of the admissions process. Specifically, students must pass a Mathematics Competency Exam during their freshman year. To support student success, the university implemented a structured pathway that began with a two-week summer math bootcamp, followed by enrollment in quantitative courses including Applied College Algebra and Physics. Students were also provided weekly assignments and supplementary instructional resources throughout the academic year to reinforce learning and exam preparation. During the first academic year of implementation, a significant portion of students did not pass the Mathematics Competency Exam. In response, the university introduced a College Algebra Lab in the second year to offer additional, integrated instructional support. This lab featured diagnostic assessments, targeted remediation, and real-time application of algebraic concepts aligned with the DMS curriculum. Results from the second year demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in student outcomes. More students successfully completed Applied College Algebra and Physics, and the Mathematics Competency Exam pass rate increased. These findings suggest that the addition of the College Algebra Lab contributed meaningfully to enhancing academic performance and readiness for entry into the DMS program.
KEYWORDS
Applied College Algebra, Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Program, Lab-Based Intervention, Math Competency Exam, Pre-algebra Bootcamp
CITATION (APA)
Kashyap, U., & Mathew, S. (2026). Evaluating Math Competency Challenges Among Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Students: The Role of Supplemental Lab Support. Journal of Research in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, 9(2), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.31756/jrsmte.921
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