Memorial University is contradicting remarks made by the Faculty Association regarding class size and the number of contractual faculty positions in the Department of Mathematics.

MUNFA claims that seven of eight contractual positions are being terminated, and that the university is expanding class sizes, something which could have a detrimental effect on the student experience.

However, MUN says students who need and want math will have a seat. In fact, the new schedule will ensure a wider variety of time slots are used throughout the day, giving students more flexibility.

The administration acknowledges that classes will be larger, but says that does not inherently reduce academic quality. It says it is also providing substantial instructional support at the first-year math Help Centre for one-on-one, via peer tutoring, and through teaching assistants.

Memorial, not unlike other universities, has experienced declining enrolment over the past four years with a drop of 1,200 registrations in first-year math courses.