The study by David Torres, Jorge Crichigno, and Carmella Sanchez employs a Monte Carlo simulation to assess the efficiency of curriculum structures in degree programs, particularly analyzing the average time required for students to graduate. This method simulates numerous potential student experiences to identify and alleviate bottlenecks in a curriculum, such as challenging prerequisite courses and required course sequences that may extend time to graduation.
Main Takeaways:
- Monte Carlo Simulation Application: The simulation enrolls virtual students in a degree plan and predicts outcomes based on institutional data of course pass rates, allowing assessment of how course prerequisites affect graduation timelines.
- Identifying Bottlenecks: By altering pass rates and prerequisites in the simulation, the study identifies which courses most significantly impact the average time to graduate and suggests adjustments to improve graduation rates.
- Practical Adjustments for Efficiency: The simulation results suggest placing experienced instructors in bottleneck courses and reevaluating the necessity of certain prerequisites to enhance curriculum efficiency.
- Resulting Efficiency Metrics: The study provides a quantitative measure of curriculum efficiency, presenting a model for colleges to use in optimizing their degree plans for better student retention and success rates.