Free MATH STAMPEDE Pilot Study
We are excited to introduce the Marshall University College of Science research study, known as MATH STAMPEDE, which will explore how well ALEKS PPL, a math placement program, helps students succeed in their college math courses. Get ready with assessments and personalized learning, get placed at the right level, and get ahead by testing into a higher class—saving time and money. Your final grades from Fall and/or Spring math courses will help us evaluate its impact.
We think MATH STAMPEDE with ALEKS PPL can make a real difference for Marshall students. Let’s put it to the test — join the study and help us Help the HERD!
What is ALEKS PPL?
ALEKS PPL is Placement, Preparation, and Learning. It’s a powerful, web-based tool that includes:
- An Initial Placement Assessment (25 questions, 60–90 minutes)
- A Personalized Prep and Learning Module tailored to your needs
- Up to 4 additional Proctored Placement Assessments to improve your placement
Why Join the STAMPEDE Pilot Study?
MATH STAMPEDE with ALEKS PPL gives you the chance to STAMPEDE into college ready for success.
- Get Ready with targeted skills review
- Get Placed in the right class – not too easy, not too hard
- Get Ahead by skipping unnecessary courses – acing your course or placing into a higher one from the start
As a participant in this pilot study, you’ll receive a 12-month ALEKS PPL license — completely free. There are only 200 free licenses available for eligible students, so don’t miss your chance! Once you complete the Initial Placement Exam, the license is yours to keep for the full year—even if you choose not to continue in the study.
Study Bonus: Share Your Thoughts, Win Prizes!
Complete two short surveys and you’ll be entered to win one of four $25 Herd Points prizes—just for sharing your experience!
Who’s Eligible for the pilot study?
If you’ve received an invitation, congratulations — you’re eligible to participate! Not sure if you’ve been invited? Check the eligibility criteria below to find out:
- Fully admitted incoming freshman
- Registered for orientation with an intent to enroll in Fall classes
- Priority for study participation and free ALEKS PPL licenses will be given to Marshall for All and Pell-eligible students
- You’re enrolled in a degree program where the first required math course is below Calculus II. (If you’re unsure, please check with your academic advisor or one of the MATH STAMPEDE team shown below.)
How the MATH STAMPEDE program works
Initial ALEKS Assessment
Once you’re enrolled, you’ll receive a link to access the ALEKS PPL platform. Simply log in using your Marshall ID and password to begin.
You’ll complete your Initial Placement Assessment online using secure proctoring tools—Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor—to ensure a fair and accurate experience.
Important: This is not a traditional exam. It’s a diagnostic tool designed to understand your current math knowledge and identify areas for growth. To get the most accurate results:
- Complete the assessment honestly and independently—no outside help (human or electronic) is allowed.
- Only use a calculator when provided by ALEKS PPL within the platform.
Prep & Learn
After completing your Initial Placement Assessment, ALEKS PPL will create a customized Prep & Learning module just for you—designed to strengthen the areas where you need the most support.
Work through your individualized learning path at your own pace within ALEKS to build confidence and improve your placement.
Reassess & Advance
You’ll have up to four additional opportunities to reassess and potentially place into a higher-level math course.
To retake the placement assessment, you must:
- Spend at least 5 hours actively working in your Prep & Learning module.
- Wait a minimum of 48 hours between assessments (a required “cooling-off” period).
Ongoing Support
MATH STAMPEDE isn’t just a summer boost—it’s your launchpad for long-term success. Throughout the fall and spring semesters, you’ll continue to have full access to ALEKS PPL, giving you on-demand support whenever you need it.
You won’t be on this journey alone. Marshall faculty will check in regularly, offering encouragement and guidance to help you stay on track and keep progressing.
At Marshall, we’re committed to Empowering Students to Excel—and MATH STAMPEDE is one of the first steps. We’re here to support you every step of the way as you STAMPEDE into college with confidence and stronger math skills.
Course Placement Information
If You Qualify for a Higher Course: Move Ahead
- As your placement improves, your academic advisor will work with you to update your schedule—helping you skip unnecessary courses and move more quickly toward graduation.
Higher placement = faster progress + lower tuition costs
What If you Stay in the Same Course: Be Better Prepared
- Spending time over the summer refreshing your math skills with ALEKS PPL means you’ll start your class more prepared, more confident, and ready to succeed.
Stronger prep = better grades + a smoother start to college
Interested in joining the MATH STAMPEDE pilot?
Check your Marshall email for more details, stop by the MATH STAMPEDE banner during your summer Orientation to learn more, or apply now if eligible!
- Click on the Apply Now button.
- Download the Informed Consent Form.
- You must initial each page and sign the last page.
- Complete your enrollment by returning the signed Informed Consent by email to stapleto@marshall.edu or briscoe7@marshall.edu.
Not Eligible or Not Interested in the Study? You Can Still STAMPEDE with Us!
You can join the MATH STAMPEDE by purchasing a license for ALEKS PPL for $25. Join the STAMPEDE; follow the link for the non-pilot study group.
Join the STAMPEDE
Apply NowGot Questions?
Visit our FAQ pageMATH STAMPEDE is part of a Marshall research study
MATH STAMPEDE with ALEKS PPL is part of a research study on student success. Participation is free for invited students—check your email to see if you’re in!
Reach out anytime. We’re here to help!
