Cal State LA, in partnership with Pasadena City College (PCC), has received a $499,867 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to empower data-driven learning and strengthen student success in mathematics.
The project, titled “Empowering Data-Driven Futures: A California State University–Community College Collaboration to Integrate Computational Thinking in Mathematics Pathways,” is led by Jie Zhong, associate professor of mathematics at Cal State LA and the grant’s lead principal investigator.
The co-principal investigators are Dong Zhou, associate professor of mathematics at Cal State LA, and Xiaodan Leng, associate professor of mathematics at PCC.
The initiative is funded through NSF’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI): Enriching Learning, Programs, and Student Experiences program. It aims to enhance undergraduate STEM education at HSIs in all disciplines supported by NSF and improves access to computing and lab resources that enrich students’ educational experiences.
Through the two-year grant, the project is focused on embedding data science and mathematical modeling into both lower- and upper-division math courses to better prepare students for success in STEM.
According to Zhong, “By redesigning curriculum, training faculty, and expanding hands-on mentorship, the project seeks to improve persistence and career readiness among Latina/o and first-generation students in STEM fields.”
As part of this collaboration, the project will modernize gateways and transfer mathematics-level courses by integrating Python-based activities, real-world datasets, and modeling modules. It will also build faculty capacity through professional development workshops, open educational resources, and peer mentoring.
In addition, the initiative will expand research and mentorship opportunities to strengthen the pathway from PCC to Cal State LA, while enhancing the alignment between the California State University and community college systems to boost student retention, transfer, and degree completion.
“Our pathway with Pasadena City College creates a seamless bridge for students to build confidence and capability in data-driven mathematics,” Zhong said.
Zhong, who joined the Cal State LA faculty in 2018, specializes in applied mathematics, mathematical modeling, and data science education. His research focuses on improving mathematics learning through technology integration and interdisciplinary collaboration. He has led several initiatives to redesign math pathways and promote equitable access to STEM education for underrepresented students.
The project reflects Cal State LA’s commitment to inclusive excellence and innovation in STEM education.
The Department of Mathematics, housed in the College of Natural and Social Sciences at Cal State LA, offers four Bachelor of Science options—applied, general, integrated teaching, and traditional teaching—and a Master of Science program. In addition to its degree programs, the department offers an undergraduate minor and two state-approved Subject Matter Programs in mathematics.
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