Math911 is a software program created by Professor Weissman who has been teaching Mathematics since 1963. There is currently a Back to School Free Offer. This free standard version (full working copy) covers Introductory Algebra, and you’ll find free Modules in PDF form to go along with it. Both can be found in the sidebar on the left side of his website.
You can upgrade to the premier version which costs $49.95 (student special), and includes a free USB version (Algebra In A Flash). Math911 Premier includes not only Introductory Algebra, but also Intermediate Algebra, College Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, and Statistics. Here are some features of Math911:
~ All problems are algorithmically generated.
~ 10 minute learning curve.
~ Step by Step solutions.
~ Only Free-form answers.
~ Dynamic Grade reports on all screens.
~ Needs no internet connection.
~ Can be networked.
~ Free Home Use For Teachers
~ Free Upgrades
~ Free Install on New PCs
My daughter and I are currently working through Introductory Algebra, and we definitely have mixed feelings when it comes to this software.
Likes:
I like that the program has the student keep going until they pass a level. It’s the ‘if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again’ principle. It’s good for the student to learn to work at something until they get it. It’s a nice lesson in diligence because the wrong answers don’t count against them.
The student can gauge their progress as they work through each section, and see how close they are to passing the current level. The grade reporting page is a nice way for the student to see their overall success as they move through the course. I also like the step by step solutions.
I also like that Professor Weissman offers free updates based on input from students and schools, plus free tech support with the upgraded premier version. I didn’t need any help, but other reviewers said their emails were answered quickly, and they received the help they needed.
Dislikes:
Going into it, we thought this was a complete course. I have to disagree as the instruction side of it leaves much to be desired. Most of the courses do not have the modules, but since we are working on the Introductory Algebra course, we do have modules to go with that. However, my daughter and I both agreed they were not conducive to our style learning. The format appeared cluttered, and my daughter quickly stalled on reading them. Well, except for the jokes. Those we shared out loud.
My daughter found the program a bit frustrating because she would have to get the problem wrong in order to see a step by step solution. It seemed backwards to her to do the problem, and then learn how. Plus, you don’t learn WHY you are doing what you are doing. Even though my daughter was frustrated with the lack of teaching, she did pass each section in a relatively short amount of time.
Overall impression:
If you are looking for a complete course, I don’t think this will meet your needs. However, if you are looking for an incredible practice and review program, this would work wonderfully for that purpose. In fact, we will continue with our own math curriculum, and use this to supplement with added practice and review as we go through higher mathematics. I think the price is definitely worth it for the comprehensive practice and review it gives your student.
I recommend trying out the free version, then upgrading to the premier version if you like the software. If you’d like to read more reviews from the TOS Review Crew, check out the Math911 crew post. The link to other reviews is at the bottom of the post.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this software to review. All prices and information are correct to the best of my knowledge at the time this review was written. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. You can read my full disclosure policy here.