Does this mean I have to learn everything by myself?
Not at all. Anytime you are in the Studio, there are real live teachers and trained tutors to answer any questions and help you as needed. The Studio class is different, but it is not an independent study. You will meet regularly each week with your class and instructor, and that time will be used in proven ways to increase your potential for success. In a normal class, the teacher may lecture every class, and then you are left trying your best after class on your own to work through problems. However, in the Studio version, you will know what you are expected to learn that week, and will have a variety of resources, including individual, personal, attention from your instructor; so that learning happens as you work through your assignments. The Studio classes seek to provide you the help you need when you need it, so you are never alone as you meet the challenge of learning mathematics.
I don't have internet access at home - is that a problem?
Not at all - the Studio will be open throughout the week and on Sunday, so you will have a place on campus you can work on your mathematics. Having internet access at home is preferred so you could review at home, but it is not essential or required. And you can always review your book or notes at home without the internet!
If I finish my assignments for the week early, can I skip my lab period?
No, it is important that you work on math consistently throughout the week. There may be some bonus points available if you complete some additional activities.
I am not a good math student - is this set up going to work for me?
Absolutely! Mathematics is in some ways like riding a bike - you have to practice to get the hang of it. By providing you with the time to work on your mathematics, instant feedback so you can see your progress, and immediate help in a variety of forms, you will get better and better at math, and eventually find that you are a good math student!
I am worried about having to do my work on a computer, what should I do?
No worries! While you will be doing your assignments on a computer, the program is very user-friendly and the first meeting and assignments are set up to help you get comfortable. And you will have people to help you all semester long whenever you are in the Studio.
I am planning on taking a lot of math courses to complete my major - will the Studio version prepare me for what comes next?
Yes. Santa Fe stands solidly behind this format. Research at other schools shows that students who successfully complete Studio-type courses are just as, if not better, prepared for the next level than their counterparts.
Does online homework mean everything is multiple-choice?
While you will see some multiple choice problems, you will also see many short-answer questions. This particular software system has an excellent track record for recognizing different forms of correct answers, unlike some systems you may have seen in the past. You will also be asked to show your work and interpret your answers, just like in any other math class.
If this is so great, why aren't all math classes taught this way?
We are offering as many Studio sections as possible, given our current resources and the structure of the grant that made this possible. The program will continue to expand as we renovate the Studio space. See the Title III homepage for the other classes that will be taught in the Studio and the timeline.
Why do I have to take math anyway?
Mathematics is a wonderful subject that helps us better understand the world around us. By studying math, you are training your brain to think logically, see patterns, and be attentive to details. Learning mathematics teaches us how to break complicated ideas into manageable subparts and then bring the parts together into a comprehensible whole. Mathematics shows us how to work in both abstract and concrete realms, and how the two relate. All of these are skills that will help you no matter what career you choose. Mathematics is for everyone, and everyone can succeed in and enjoy their math classes!
Who is Glenn T. Smith?
Glenn was the chairman of the Mathematics Department from 1992 through 2001. During that time Glenn led the evolution of the department from traditional thinking about mathematics teaching and learning into 21st century pedagogies. He was particularly drawn to looking at how technology could be effectively incorporated into the classroom to enhance student learning and understanding. It is largely as a result of the direction that he brought to the department that we are engaged in the opening of this mathematics studio. Unfortunately, Professor Smith unexpectedly passed away on campus in October of 2003. He was in the process of completing his 30th year at the college.
