This paper presentation will
report on the findings from diagnostic test data relating to the mathematical
abilities of mature first year undergraduate STEM students (n=324) at the University of
Limerick (U.L.) from 2010 to 2014. A focus will be placed on Science and
Technology students. The diagnostic test instrument that is administered to all
first year Science and Technology students in their first mathematics lecture
of the year will be described. The presentation will henceforth explore the
mathematical areas that mature students in these disciplines find difficult, as
well as the mathematics that they have a sound understanding of, upon entering
a third-level undergraduate programme of study. The current intervention
methods employed at U.L. for those diagnosed as “at risk” from the diagnostic
test will be discussed.