Why study math online?

Online courses give students an opportunity to work at their own pace and on their own time, without having to go to a classroom.
Adults are generally learn math best in an atmosphere that is non threatening and supportive of experimentation and in which different learning styles are recognized.

Would I be able to study math online?

If you are the type of person who likes to work at your own pace, in your own time frame, you have good organizational skills, online learning is a good option for you. The most significant factor contributing to your success will be your willingness to work on a regular basis.

Before you enroll, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Am I a self-directed person?
  • Do I have good study habits and fair math foundations?
  • Am I ready for independent studies?
  • Am I comfortable using a computer and the Internet?
  • Do I have Internet access from my home or from any other place at the convenient for me location?
  • Am I really willing to actively interact with classmates, instructors, through a primarily electronic learning environment?
  • Am I willing to dedicate a minimum of 8 to 10 hours a week to participate in this learning process?
  • Can I motivate myself to go to the virtual classroom at least 5 out of every 7 days?
  • Am I ready to except the fact that the Internet could be down sometimes?

    If at least one of your answers is no you probably should not take this course.

    • Will I be required to read math texts on my own?

    Yes, much of the material covered in a MAT132IN/HD class will require you to learn from reading. This may include textbooks, Internet-based materials and written "lectures" or notes from your instructor.

    How much time does it take?

    Students taking online math courses report spending 8 to 10 hours each week working on it. Online learning does not take fewer hours, but you do get to work during the hours that work best for you.

    What is the instructor's role in the online course?

    When students take more responsibility for the learning process as well as the outcomes, the role of the instructor is different from traditional.
    The instructor’s role in MAT132IN/HD is to set up the learning environment for the optimal learning experience. By providing the right tools, direction, parameters, and guidance, the instructor creates the possibility for their students to achieve success and motivates students to want nothing less.

    How do I register for MAT132IN or MAT132HD course?

    Students register for online courses through traditional campus registration processes the same as for any other course: in person, touch-tone phone, or online registration. The only difference is that they have to get an instructor's permission to register first.

    How do I get an instructor's permission to take an online math course?

    You have to send a short email to your instructor telling that you are intended to take the course. (Keep in mind that providing complete information in your message is very important for quick processing). Your instructor will contact you shortly with several questions you are supposed to answer. Depending on your answers, you will get an advice if you should or should not take a math course online. Upon receiving the instructor's permission to join class via email, you may start your registration process.

    I've registered for the course, what do I do next?

    Your first step is to register for your Virtual Classroom and make yourself comfortable in a new online environment. The Eduspace Getting Started Guide will help you you to register and determine how your course is being offered and which steps you need to take by the first day of the semester. A course code from your instructor will be sent to you through email at the first day of school. Your personal passkey you will find in the Eduspace Getting Started Guide.

    Where can I get the Eduspace Getting Started Guide if I purchased a used textbook.

    You can get the Eduspace Getting Started Guide for Students with the passkey from HM Customer Service. Call at 877-859-7241 and order it from them directly.The cost is approximately $25.

    ISBN number: 0-618-52634-X (1 passkey booklet)

    What do I need to do before the course starts?

    To begin a course, you need to register, obtain the required course materials, have a computer in good working condition and properly configured, and know the orientation and course start dates.

    I need to schedule a proctored test for a distance learning course:

    All testing for distance learning courses is now handled through the campus testing center. Students should contact the campus testing center in advance to schedule an appointment to take their test. More information you will get from your instructor.

    W a r n i n g ! ! !


    Online courses make use of a classroom discussion area which allows interaction between students and instructors as well as among students. However, online based interaction can be less satisfying than face-to-face communication for some learners. The online classroom requires you to structure your own schedule, balancing your time around the assignments/ requirements of the class. Without the need to show up in a particular place at a designated time each week, some learners find it all too easy to put work off until the last minute.