Frequently Asked Questions
Updated 5/25/2013

• How does this class work?
  You will be working through the text and tutorials to learn the material. I have also recorded short video podcasts for you to watch on the major course topics which are posted in the Podcasts section in MyMathLab. There are no formal class meetings, and you are free to work on the material whenever you want so long as you complete the homework and quizzes by the deadlines. You are free to work ahead. In fact, since we are trying to complete a full-semester (16 weeks) course in just 6 weeks, I highly recommend that you get started now work ahead in case life happens. While all the work is submitted online, you will need to come to campus for two tests.
  Students who have not completed the first assignment (listed below) by the deadline may be dropped from the course.
  
  
• What is the first assignment?
  The first assignment (all due by 11 pm on 6/20 or prior to 6/19 if you need to add the class) consists of three things:
  1. Syllabus quiz You must earn 100% on this and you can try this unlimited times. It is accessible through the "Quizzes section in MML.
  2. Online survey The link to this survey can be found in the "Announcements" section in MML.
  3. Chapter 1 homework for Math 111 or Variable & Line Review homework for Math 112 This, and all other homework is accessible through the "Homework" section in MML. You can retry problems you missed by clicking on "Similar exercise." In order to begin the homework, you must earn 100% on the syllabus quiz.
  Start early -- there are four sections in chapter 1.
  
  
• (In the case that the class is full) Can I still add?
  If you wish to add the class, please do the following:
  1. Sign up for MyMathLab and get started with the class today. There is free 17 day temporary access (see below) that will let you get started now.
  2. Complete the entire first assignment (listed above) before 6/19 which is the official last day to add.
  3. Send me an email stating that you have completed the first assignment for Math 111 or Math 112 online and that you would like an authorization code. Please be sure to include your full name.
  
  I will only add students who have completed the entire first assignment. Students who do not complete the first assignment by the due date will not be added to the course. Priority will be given to students on the waiting list (if there is one).
  
  
• What is the courseware (course management system) being used for this class?
  We will be using the MyMathLab (MML) courseware which you will need to purchase access to. You can purchase it online with a credit card or at the bookstore (ask the cashier). You will be submitting homework and quizzes through MML. Also, after the course begins, all announcements will be made through MML. Your subscription to MML includes an online version of the textbook.
  
  
• I used MyMathLab last semester, do I need to pay again?
  If you have taken Math 110, 111, or 112 within the last couple of years at Canada, then you should not need to pay again. If you took one of those classes at another SMCCD and used MML with Elementary and Intermediate Algebra by Jay Lehmann, you should not need to buy MML again. In both cases though, you will need to enroll in this course using the course id in the syllabus.
  
  
• What is the course id?
  See the Math 111 syllabus or Math 112 syllabus.
  
  
• How do I sign up for MML?
  Watch videos on how to sign up here and/or follow the directions in this handout.
  
  
• I can't afford MML -- is there financial aid?
  Yes and no. While you will need to purchase access eventually, you can get free 17 day temporary access that will allow you to start now! For more information click the link above that shows you how to sign up. Everyone in the class needs to complete the assignments prior to the deadline. Waiting for funds and/or financial aid is not a valid reason for late work since you can start the class now.
  
  
• Is the orientation mandatory?
  No, but it's highly recommended. This is one of the few opportunities for you to get your questions about the course answered in person. I will explain the highlights of the course and demonstrate how to use MML. More importantly,You may also wish to use the orientation as an opportunity to meet other students in the class and exchange contact information in case you wish to study together or call someone for help.
  
  On 6/17, I will post an online orientation on the home page for this course. Check back here or your my.smccd.edu email account for updates.
  
  
• Is this class fully online or do we have to come to campus for certain things?
  While all the work is submitted online, you will need to come to campus for the midterm and final exams.
  
  
• Will there be class meetings?
  No.
  
  
• Is this class self paced/flexible?
  No. Homework is due every Monday and Thursday by 11 pm and quizzes are due every Tuesday and Friday night at 11 pm. The first assignment is due Thursday, June 20! While you are free to work ahead, no extensions will be given, so start your work early. Students who do not sign up for MML and submit the first assignment by Thursday, 6/20 may be dropped from the class.
  
  
• How many hours do I need to put into this class?
  In a typical regular semester course, you are expected to put in two hours outside of class for every hour in class. So for a 3 unit class (which Math 111 & 112 are), you would estimate about 9 hours a week. But this is summer and we are moving 3 times as fast!!! That translates to at least 2-3 hours per day, 5-7 days per week!!! You should schedule at least 2-3 hours per day to learn the material, study, and complete the homework and quizzes. In an online class, you are basically responsible for teaching your self the material. It usually takes longer to learn material online than if you were to learn it in a traditional classroom. It is not sufficient to just do the homework and quizzes, you need to spend time learning and making sure you understand the material, too.
  
  
• What happens if I can't log on or have problems with MyMathLab?
  Contact technical support immediately! I usually use the chat feature and have gotten all of my issues resolved within 24 hours. Online chat is open 24 hours most days of the week. Problems with the MML website should be directed to technical support.
  
  
• Will you give me an extension if I am having computer problems?
  No, unless the MML website is down for a considerable (many hours) amount of time, you need to plan ahead and start your work early. Like all technology, sometimes MML has brief site interruptions that can last a few minutes to an hour. When there are major site issues, check your my.smccd.edu email for alternate login instructions. Keep in mind that MML works on most computers in the Library and Learning Center and you can always complete your work there.
  
  
• What help is available?
  Cañada College offers drop-in tutoring Monday through Thursday in the Math Lab located on the second floor of Building 9 all the way in the back. You can also make up to two FREE one-on-one tutoring appointments each week in the Learning Center. Sign up for these appointments in WebSMART via "make appointments" and meet your tutor in the Math Lab.
  
  
• Do you have an idea of when the test days might be scheduled for?
  Midterm: Tuesday, July 9 OR Wednesday, July 10
  Final Exam: Tuesday, July 23 OR Wednesday, July 24
  I will post reminders in MML at least a week in advance. You will need to go to the Learning Center during their open hours (8 am to 7 pm) to take your test on the designated test days.
  
  
• I see that for each midterm on the calendar, there are two days listed. Do I have to come both days?
  No. You only need to come on one day. Each test is two hours, so make sure you arrive by 4:45 pm. You cannot start the test one day and then come back and finish it the next day.
  
  
• What are the required supplies?
  See the supply list.
  
  
• What is the textbook used for the course?
  While a physical textbook is not required, some of you may want to get one. The text is Elementary & Intermediate Algebra: Functions and Authentic Applications, First Edition by Jay Lehmann. The texts are available for purchase or rent in the bookstore.