MA101 – Intermediate Algebra The Dawning of a New Way to Develop Skills in Mathematics Spring 2009

How is MA101 different? No textbook – Learn from an online software product called ALEKS Still use pencil and paper to do your work, but you input answers into ALEKS ALEKS provides a calculator when you need it Using ALEKS will help you develop your computer skills

ALEKS at Southeast Missouri State Assessment and LEarning in Knowledge Spaces Web-based, artificially intelligent assessment and learning system Individualized format with one- on-one instruction Possible to finish the course before the end of the semester

How does it work? ALEKS will determine what you know and what you are ready to learn Working at your own pace, you work in class and out of class on topics you are ready to learn Individual help while in class from a team of instructors ALEKS will work with you to help you master the skills you need to be successful in future math classes.

ALEKS – Getting Started Java and ALEKS plug-in High-speed internet not necessary Self-registration Answer Editor Tutorial Initial Assessment No two assessments are alike. The questions cannot be predicted. Each question depends upon how you answered the previous one.

ALEKS Students are neither bored by working on concepts they have already mastered nor frustrated by studying those for which they are not yet prepared. Everyone starts from what they know and works through the objectives as their own pace The more time students spend out of class working on the material, the sooner they can finish the course.

ALEKS Time on task Automatic Assessments In-class Assessments

ALEKS – End of the semester Take an end-of-course assessment (End-of-course) – (initial)  80 objectives, then grade of CR, enroll in MA102 next semester Number of objectives  170, then grade of CR and Intermediate Algebra requirement met, enroll in Logical Systmes Fail course, retake MA101

Missouri Western Student Comments ALEKS is much less intimidating than actually going into a traditional classroom feeling like you are dumb because you don’t know what the teacher is talking about. You can work at your own pace. The fact that ALEKS figures out what areas you are weak in and works on that with you, is a big plus compared to having to sit in a lecture about something you are already familiar with.

Missouri Western Student Comments I didn’t really like the idea of an entire math course on the computer when I started the class. After only a few days I found that it was very helpful and I actually learned more than I think that I would have in a regular course. What I liked most about ALEKS is that it wouldn’t move on if I didn’t understand something. That’s what was hard about a normal math class, I would get so far behind because we would move on to something new each day even if I did not understand what was going on.

Missouri Western Student Comments I believe the developmental math program allows all of us to learn the way that is best for us. For example, I learn best by working it out myself, rarely asking for help. Others need someone to show them the problems, and that is also available to them. It’s a great program.