Morris College Debuts Groundbreaking Innovative AI-Based Math Emporium to Strengthen Student Success
Morris College Debuts Groundbreaking Innovative AI-Based Math Emporium to Strengthen Student Success
December 03, 2025
Morris College proudly announces the expansion of its ALEKS-based Math Emporium, a technology-enabled, student-centered learning model designed to transform math instruction and dramatically improve student outcomes. Following a successful pilot phase launched in Summer 2025, the College is extending the initiative beyond developmental math to include general Algebra and Honors Algebra courses.
The Math Emporium model is housed in a fully equipped, open-floor computer lab in the Richardson-Johnson Learning Resources Center on campus. Thirty computer workstations provide students with access to ALEKS, an adaptive learning platform that diagnoses learning gaps and creates individualized learning pathways. Students work at their own pace while receiving on-demand support from faculty, tutors, and peers.
Weekly sessions in the Emporium combine self-paced work in ALEKS, faculty-led mini-lessons, and structured peer tutoring. This approach is especially well suited to the needs of underprepared students, helping them build confidence and competence in a supportive, collaborative environment that reflects Morris College’s mission as a historically Black college committed to educational equity and student success.
The Emporium grew out of a benchmarking visit to Kent State University in November 2024, where Morris College’s academic leadership observed a successful ALEKS-based Math Emporium in action and adapted the model for the Sumter campus. The early results at Morris College have been remarkable: the initial Summer 2025 pilot of the Math Emporium produced a 97 percent pass rate for participating students, far exceeding traditional course outcomes.
“Morris College is committed to transforming the way we support teaching and learning, especially in high-impact gateway courses like mathematics,” said President Said L. Sewell, Ph.D. “The Math Emporium is a powerful example of how innovation, technology, and dedicated faculty can come together to change students’ trajectories. When our students succeed in math, we open doors for them across every discipline and career pathway.”
Dr. Lewis Graham, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the academic impact of the initiative. “Our students are demonstrating stronger mastery of core concepts, higher levels of engagement, and greater confidence in their ability to succeed in college-level math,” Dr. Graham said. “By combining ALEKS’ adaptive technology with intentional, human-centered support, the Math Emporium allows us to meet students where they are and move them forward efficiently and effectively. This is not just a new way of teaching math—it is an academic game-changer for Morris College.”
Building on the success of the pilot, Morris College continued the Emporium model during Fall 2025, expanding its use beyond developmental courses to general Algebra and Honors Algebra. Looking ahead, the College plans to extend the model to incoming freshmen and students needing accelerated preparation for college-level mathematics. These enhancements will allow Morris College to refine the Emporium further, integrate it more deeply into the broader curriculum, and lay out the groundwork for future expansion across additional disciplines.
“The Emporium program allowed me to work at my own pace and in my own time. I would be glad to take another class in this style as it was not difficult to manage my time. I would encourage others who have a busy schedule to take a class of this type since there are not a lot of other online options with 24-hour access,” said student, Robierre Brown. Jomecya Rivers added, “I feel the program worked well for my learning style. Independent learners just get it done.”
“The Math Emporium is a strategic investment in our students’ long-term academic growth,” Dr. Graham added. “As we continue to analyze outcomes and scale the model, we are positioning Morris College as a leader in innovative, data-informed instruction among HBCUs and small liberal arts colleges nationally.”
This initiative aligns directly with Morris College’s broader mission to ensure equitable access to education while improving retention and graduation rates. By leveraging technology, personalized learning, and collaborative support, the Math Emporium is helping more students persist, graduate, and pursue advanced study and careers that require strong quantitative skills.
Tutor’s perspectives on the program
“Morris College's Math Emporium enables students to develop self-discipline, time management skills, and deepen their comprehension of the topic at their own pace. Working independently is essential for success in higher education and the workforce, where lifelong learning and adaptability are highly valued.” Dr. Gibson
“The emporium format of learning helps the student to grow as an independent learner. The format encourages the student to take the initiative to ask questions as needed.” Ms. Kenely