What is the Math Lab?

The purpose of the Math lab is to aid students in developing their mathematical abilities. The lab is staffed by a director and several student tutors who are available to help students in their mathematics courses.

Instruction in the Math Lab is very informal. Students are welcome to come to the lab with questions whenever they need help in understanding math course work. We structure our tutoring style to meet the student's mathematical needs in order to help them to gain self-confidence to become independent learners.

Our goal in the lab is to increase each student's understanding of her or his course material. This takes time and active participation on the student's part. Please do not expect the lab to provide quick answers for the purpose of completing homework assignments. This does you a disservice. If we can help you understand the material so you can complete your assignment, we will be glad to do so.

Ms. Julie Jackson is the director of the Math Lab. She sees students by walk-in or appointment. If you would like an appointment or if you have other questions, stop in the lab, located in room 323A in the Administration Building or call 520- 5310.

Hours
When classes are in session:

Fall and Spring Semester:
Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Summer Session:
Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(hours subject to change)

Resources

The lab has eight computers and instructional videos to support Pre-Algebra and Pre-Calculus which students may use.

Upon request, the lab director may refer a student for private one-on-one tutoring. Prices generally range from $10-$20 per hour; dependent upon the qualifications of the tutor and the degree of difficulty of the course. The Math Lab assumes no responsibility for the quality of services provided by private tutors.

Students are encouraged to use the lab as a place to do homework, work in a study group, or receive assistance in math questions.

Guidelines

• Students must sign in when they come to use the Math Lab.
• Students must be enrolled in a math course at Xavier University in order to use the Math Lab.
• The Math Lab’s textbooks and manuals must remain in the math lab while in use.
• Up to two videos can be checked out for a maximum of two days for home viewing, provided there is a lab copy.
• A Xavier ID card is required in order to check out videos from the lab.
• Food, drinks, and smoking are not allowed in the lab.
• Children are not allowed in the lab.
• No student is allowed to remove or copy any lab software or lab videos.
• Talking should be at a level as not to disturb others in the lab.
• The Internet is to be used for academic research only. Chat rooms are not permitted.
• The Computers in the lab should be left as you found them. Do not change any settings, nor save any files to the hard drive.
• Failure to abide by the above guidelines will result (at minimum) in having your lab privileges taken away.
• Each tutor has varying levels of math knowledge and may not be able to assist you with math topics in which they are not familiar.
• It is your responsibility to ensure your assignments are completed on time. If you wait until the last minute to complete your assignment or project, that is your problem, not the tutor's.
• Tutors are forbidden to assist with any exams. NO EXCEPTIONS!

Study Tips

• Learn how to relax before tests are taken.
• Use a good math note taking system.
• Spend as much time on math homework as needed.
• Complete your most difficult assignments first. Usually, this means math assignments.
• Read ahead in the math textbook and prepare questions for the instructor.
• For each chapter, prepare your own list of math vocabulary words.
• Develop practice tests and time yourself while taking them.
• For practice, do all the example problems in the text.
• While doing homework, write down questions for the instructor/tutor.
• Be aware of the time allotted while taking a math test.
• Make sure you attend class regularly.
• Schedule a study period after your math class.
• For difficult topics, review the video tapes before going to class.
• Verbalize (silently) problems the instructor writes on the board. Solve the problem or silently verbalize each solution step.
• Make note cards to remind yourself how to solve various types of math problems.
• Get help early in the semester before you get too lost in the course.
• For understanding, recite back the materials you have read in the math textbook.
• Take notes on how to solve difficult problems.
• Copy all information that is written on the board.
• Do math homework every day.
• If you miss a class, ask your instructors permission to attend the same course at a different time. Remember: You are held responsible for material covered during your absence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is in charge of the Math Lab?
Ms. Julie Jackson is the Math Lab Director. She can be reached in her office in the Administration Building room 323A or by calling 520-5310.

Is tutoring available by appointment?
No. Tutoring is done on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Are other services offered besides tutoring?
Yes. The student can borrow text books, calculators, and solution manuals. Also, there are computer software and video tapes available to use.

What should I bring with me to the Math Lab?
If the student is interested in getting tutoring help, it is important to come in with questions ready, your text book, and any notes from your class. Remember, Math Tutors are prohibited in giving any assistance on work that receives credit. However, they can assist with any text book problems or examples presented by an instructor during class. The tutor's role is to provide assistance NOT to teach the student an entire topic.

How busy does it get?
It can get quite busy during the day at the Math Lab - especially just prior to a quiz or test. If the lab is crowded, please be patient.

Who are the tutors?
They are XU students with specialized areas of math knowledge.

Employment Opportunities

The Math Lab employs qualified students as tutors on a part-time, hourly basis. Mastery of topics through those covered up to Calculus I is required for consideration. Stop by the Math Lab and fill out an application or speak to the Math Lab Director, if you are interested in becoming a tutor.