One major factor in successfully completing mathematics classes is appropriate background. Most lower division classes depend heavily on the knowledge and skills that should have been learned in prerequisite classes. Because mathematics is not only something a student learns about but is something the student must do, mathematical knowledge and skills need to be used to maintain sufficient facility. If it has been more than six months since you have taken a mathematics class, a class which uses mathematics heavily or been employed in a job that uses mathematics, it is likely that you will need to review and practice doing mathematics before taking additional classes.

Before embarking on any of options below, you should discuss the possibilities with your academic adviser.

During December 2008 and January 2009 two online non-credit free classes are available for students needing to improve their background in algebra or trigonometry. This is free and is being offered on a trial basis. If successful, expanded opportunities to use this software will be made.

The software is designed to help students review and learn through practice. The ALEKS software adjusts to each student based on progress made. It will take a commitment of time to get the most out of this software. You should spend at least three hours each week working on ALEKS. To get through all of the material in only four weeks will take much more time unless the gaps in your knowledge are minimal.

The ALEKS software is likely to be different than other mathematics software that you may have used in the past. The principal difference is that ALEKS individualizes the instruction it provides. In order to do that ALEKS has two modes assessment and learning.