Fall 2015

Before class, look through the appropriate sections in your text so you have an idea of what we will be discussing in class.

After class (the same day if possible), go through your notes and make sure you understand everything we covered in detail. The longer you wait, the more you will forget.

Then look through the appropriate parts covered from the text book. Make sure you understand any Examples, and try the assigned end-of-chapter questions. (Answers to odd numbered questions are in the back of the text.) If you've finished a chapter, try the Readiness Assurance Test (RAT).

Don't skip class. The quizzes at the beginning of class will give you a sense of whether you understand the material or not.

Try to answer questions in class. Even if you don't speak out loud, try writing down an answer. This is one of the best ways of retaining material that you are learning. You have to actively engage it.

If you have questions either about the material or how to solve the any of the questions, come by my office and ask, or send me an e-mail.

I recommend keeping a notebook with your work as you go through end-of-chapter questions. It will help you practice writing not just the answers to a problem but also showing your work, which will be expected on the exams. It will also be easier for me to help you if you come to my office with a question because you can show me how you have attempted to work a problem. It will also be much easier for you to review the material before the exam too!

Keep up with the material. Later topics build on earlier topics. Make sure you understand the previous material otherwise you'll struggle through the current material.

A good way to check if you understand something is to attempt to explain it in your own words to someone else (or to an empty chair). Forcing yourself to articulate aloud turns out to be quite helpful in clarifying what you do know and what you don't know. Draw pictures if they help!

If you've been keeping up, then when exam time comes around you'll just need to review your notes, examples, problems you've tried.

As you go through examples and questions, take some moments to think about how the questions can be modified, and how you would solve the modified questions. This helps you understand the broader context and not just see a problem or question in isolation.

Ask questions if you don't understand something or get stuck. Outside of class, ask your classmates or come by my office and ask me.

A good rule of thumb for a 3-unit class is that you should be spending an average of 6-7 hours per week OUTSIDE of class to learn the material.

If you're struggling through the class (or not doing as well as you think you should be), I will probably ask you the following questions in order.
1. Did you understand what was going on in class?
2. Did you go over your lecture notes and the appropriate parts of the text shortly after we covered the topic in class?
3. Did you try to explain concepts in your own words?
4. Did you ask questions when you got stuck?
5. How much time are you spending outside of class learning the material?
My goal is to help you learn the material, but you also have to do your part in the learning process, which is essential.