Frequently Asked Questions
Mathematics Department, Clearwater Campus

What is mediated learning?

Mediated Learning is a learner-centered program that uses software to do the main part of instruction.  This class is self-paced.  The instructor is there to help support the student.  For more details, refer to the Academic Online web site.

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What classes are offered as mediated learning?

• MAT 0012 - Pre-Algebra
• MAT 0024 - Elementary Algebra
• MAT 1033 - Intermediate Algebra
• MAC 1105 - College Algebra

It is possible in the mediated learning class to finish more than one course in a semester.  For more details, please contact Professor Horton.

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What is the attendance policy?

Attendance is mandatory.  Four hours of absences, without major reasons and/or documentation, may result in a drop for the course.  Students who are disruptive, tardy, leave class early, or work on materials other than those from this course will have these times counted toward an absence and may also be dropped.  If you can not attend the class times for the course, there are online courses originating from the Seminole campus which you may take.  This classroom needs to be used by students who are sincere about learning and who can participate in classroom activities.  Statistics show that 80% of success in a course is due to regular attendance and work in the classroom.

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What are the required materials for the class?

• Headphones
• Personal Academic Notebook (PAN)
• Student Guide (available online)

These materials are available in the bookstore.  You are required to buy the Personal Academic Notebook, which actually pays for the license to use the software.  For more details, refer to the Academic Online web site.

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What is the grading policy?

You need to score 80% or better on the EVALUATE to complete a lesson.  If you do not achieve that score within three attempts, you must see your instructor before proceeding to the next lesson.  A grade of 95% or better on the pre-test (OVERVIEW) is sufficient to complete a lesson.  You have only one attempt on the pre-test.

There are also written tests and a comprehensive final exam.  A minimum score is required on the final exam to receive a passing grade for the course.  Check with your instructor.

Grade Calculation:

• 40% of the grade is the average of all the EVALUATES

• 60% of the grade is the average of all the written tests and final

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How can I get in touch with my instructor?

To find your instructor's office hours, etc., refer to the faculty web site.  You may also correspond with your instructor through Academic Online under "Check my Progress."

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How do I learn more about the software?

After logging on, select "Do a Lesson" then go through "Getting Started" and "The Tour".  For more details, refer to the Academic Online web site.

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How much time should I be spending on each lesson?

A good rule of thumb is to spend at least two hours outside of class on each lesson for each hour spent in class.  The approximate completion times for each lesson is listed in the syllabus.

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Do I have homework?

Each lesson has a homework assignment.  To do well in class, you need to complete your assignments.  The problems may be found in the Personal Academic Notebook, with the answers in the back.  Your instructor may require you to turn in homework.

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How do I prepare for written tests, EVALUATES, and the final exam?

The Personal Academic Notebook has a written practice EVALUATE at the end of each lesson.  The answers are in the back of the book.

There are practice written tests (with answer keys) available online.  You should do the practice tests before you take any written test.  (In fact, some instructors may require you to turn in the practice test before taking the written exam.)  After you finish the practice test, see your instructor to get a permit slip to take the written test.

A practice final exam with answers is also included in the student guide.

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Where do I take the written tests?

You will take the written tests in SS 231 between the hours of 9AM and 1PM, or in the classroom under the instructor's supervision.  You will need a permission slip and a picture ID to take the test.

After completing a test, turn in the solutions and all work to the test administrator being careful to include all sheets of paper used.  The test will be sent to your instructor for grading.

Your instructor will review your test score with you at the next class meeting.

The use of calculators on written tests is allowed in all courses.  Calculators can also be used on the final exam for Prealgebra (MAT 0012) and Intermediate Algebra (MAT 1033).   Elementary Algebra (MAT 0024) students are not allowed to use a calculator on the final unless they have received special permission from the disabilities office.

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Where do I take the final exam?

If you finish the course early and are ready to take the final before the last week of classes, you may take the exam in SS 231.  You will need a permission slip and a picture ID to take the test.

However, if you are not ready to take the final before the last week of classes, you must wait and take the exam in your classroom during final exam week.  Your instructor will provide you with the date and time toward the end of the semester.

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What if I don't finish the class by the end of the semester?

For MAT 0012 and MAT 0024, the instructor may assign you a grade of N (not-completed).  For MAT 1033, the instructor may assign you a grade of W (withdrawal).  In either case, register for the same course next semester and pick up where you left off.  It isn't necessary to register with the same instructor.  You have a total of 3 consecutive semesters to work in the online lessons with your current license.

Each year the Legislature creates and modifies rules regarding college education.  Below is the Change to College Prep Course Repeat Policy that became effective Session 1, 1999-2000.

Students needing a third attempt of a college prep or college credit course will be charged the full cost of instruction plus any applicable fees (out of state tuition rate.)  An appeal process is available for defined extenuating or financial circumstances and is addressed to the Associate Provost's office.  The count started in the Fall Session, 1997.

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What if I finish the class before the end of the semester?

You have two choices.

1. You may begin the next course, by purchasing the next Personal Academic Notebook.
2. You may choose not to return to class for the rest of the semester.

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How do I get in extra computer time?

For computer lab hours, refer to the Learning Support Center web site.  You may also work at home, provided your computer has the correct specifications.  For installation instructions, refer to the Academic Online web site.  In either case, any work you do will be transferred to your records, provided you logoff properly.

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Can I work on this on my home computer?

Yes, provided your computer has the correct specifications.  For installation instructions, refer to the Academic Online web site.

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