Math Studio

Welcome to the Glenn T. Smith Mathematics Studio!

Located in P-220, on the second floor of Building P, the Math Studio is a large classroom space equipped with computers and specialized tutors. The purpose of the Studio approach is to provide students with the resources they need to learn mathematical skills, understand mathematical concepts, apply mathematical ideas, and gain confidence in their own mathematical ability. Everyone can be a successful math student with enough time and effort, and the Studio courses have been structured so that time to practice is an integral part of the class itself. Need extra help outside of class? Visit the Studio at any time during opening hours for walk-in tutoring.

Schedule

If you are looking for Common Math and/or Statistics Tutoring Services, please visit this page to learn more.

All tutoring services are closed when the college is closed. To view these dates check out the Official College Dates.

The studio closes each term at the end of finals, and opens again on the first day of the new term. The fastest way to reach the math studio coordinator is by email.

Developmental Mathematics

The redesign of our developmental math classes began in 2010 and has been phased in over time. Initially, these classes utilized the Math Studio along with MAT1033 classes, but, as of Fall 2012, they have their own computer classrooms. Each room is equipped with computer stations, projectors, document cameras, and white boards. Students in redesigned classes spend roughly half of their time doing typical classroom activities and half working on class assignments. Having a single meeting location gives instructors the flexibility to devote more time to work or more time to lecture as needed. Assignments are delivered using a web-based system that allows students to receive instant feedback on their work.

MAT0018Developmental Mathematics 1 (Credit Hours: 4.0)

This class is designed to introduce basic mathematics skills. It focuses on addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals; operations with signed numbers including solving for missing terms; applied geometry; percent problems; mathematical notations; ratio-proportion and mathematics study skills. Students placed into this course must demonstrate competency before registering for MAT0028 or other math-related college level courses.

MAT0028Developmental Mathematics 2 (Credit Hours: 4.0)

This course includes an in-depth study of linear equations and inequalities; integer exponents and their properties; operations on polynomials, including factoring; an introduction to graphing linear functions and interpreting graphs; solving quadratic equations; and applications. Prerequisite: MAT0018 with a C, or equivalent.

MAT0057 Developmental Mathematics (Credit Hours: 3.0)

This course integrates developmental arithmetic and algebra skills into one course to allow students to accelerate their developmental mathematics requirements. Topics include integers, percents, sets, linear equations and inequalities, polynomial operations, factoring, exponents, radicals, graphing, solving quadratics and applications for all topics. This course is modular and repeatable up to three times. Students must demonstrate mastery of all material to move onto college level mathematics.

Intermediate Algebra

Intermediate Algebra at SF is designed to give students fast feedback, more time for hands-on work during class time, and more one-on-one contact with instructors. Instead of meeting in the same classroom all the time, MAT1033 students spend part of their time in the classroom and part of their time in the Math Studio, a large classroom space equipped with computers and specialized tutors. Most coursework is done online, which lets students track their progress and learning in real-time. Working in the Math Studio gives students access to individual help from their instructors and Studio tutoring staff.

MAT1033 is offered in different modalities, described below. If you have any questions about which option is best for you, please contact the MAT1033 Course Coordinator, Stephen Fooks, or your academic advisor.

MAT1033 Intermediate Algebra (3) P

This course includes the study of quadratic equations; rational exponents and their properties; radicals; rational expressions and equations; factoring (review); graphing linear and quadratic functions and interpreting graphs; solving systems of linear equations and inequalities; and applications.

Class Formats:

• Studio: Two 85-minute class meetings each week. Each meeting will start in a classroom and then move to the Math Studio for hands-on practice.
• Hybrid: One 75-minute class meeting each week in the Math Studio. Instructional material will be provided online with studio time focusing on interaction with the instructor and hands-on practice.
• Online: No on-campus class meetings. Instructional material will be provided through Canvas.

College Algebra

College Algebra at SF is designed to give students more in-class interaction, investigation of real-world applications, and critical thinking. In addition, all sections incorporate online assessments (including homework and quizzes) to provide instant feedback. Instructors minimize the amount of lecture done in class time. Instead, students spend a significant amount of class time working together on group activities or projects with help from their instructor. Instructors use these activities to emphasize real-world applications of the course concepts and develop students critical thinking skills.

MAC1105 College Algebra (3) P

This course includes the study of relations; linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, radical, absolute value, rational and polynomial functions, including their properties and graphs; radicals, exponents, complex numbers, and absolute values; and systems of equations and inequalities. The primary General Education Learning Outcome for this course is Quantitative Reasoning, which is to understand and apply mathematical concepts and reasoning and analyze and interpret various types of data. Prerequisite: MAT1033 with C or better.

Math Studio Frequently Asked Questions

Does this mean I have to learn everything by myself?

Not at all. Anytime you are in the Studio, there are real live teachers and trained tutors to answer any questions and help you as needed. The Studio class is different, but it is not an independent study. You will meet regularly each week with your class and instructor, and that time will be used in proven ways to increase your potential for success. In a normal class, the teacher may lecture every class, and then you are left trying your best after class on your own to work through problems. However, in the Studio version, you will know what you are expected to learn that week, and will have a variety of resources, including individual, personal, attention from your instructor; so that learning happens as you work through your assignments. The Studio classes seek to provide you the help you need when you need it, so you are never alone as you meet the challenge of learning mathematics.

I don't have internet access at home - is that a problem?

Not at all - the Studio will be open throughout the week and on Sunday, so you will have a place on campus you can work on your mathematics. Having internet access at home is preferred so you could review at home, but it is not essential or required. And you can always review your book or notes at home without the internet!

If I finish my assignments for the week early, can I skip my lab period?

No, it is important that you work on math consistently throughout the week. There may be some bonus points available if you complete some additional activities.

I am not a good math student - is this set up going to work for me?

Absolutely! Mathematics is in some ways like riding a bike - you have to practice to get the hang of it. By providing you with the time to work on your mathematics, instant feedback so you can see your progress, and immediate help in a variety of forms, you will get better and better at math, and eventually find that you are a good math student!

I am worried about having to do my work on a computer, what should I do?

No worries! While you will be doing your assignments on a computer, the program is very user-friendly and the first meeting and assignments are set up to help you get comfortable. And you will have people to help you all semester long whenever you are in the Studio.

I am planning on taking a lot of math courses to complete my major - will the Studio version prepare me for what comes next?

Yes. Santa Fe College stands solidly behind this format. Research at other schools shows that students who successfully complete Studio-type courses are just as, if not better, prepared for the next level than their counterparts.

Does online homework mean everything is multiple-choice?

While you will see some multiple choice problems, you will also see many short-answer questions. This particular software system has an excellent track record for recognizing different forms of correct answers, unlike some systems you may have seen in the past. You will also be asked to show your work and interpret your answers, just like in any other math class.

If this is so great, why aren't all math classes taught this way?

We are offering as many Studio sections as possible, given our current resources and the structure of the grant that made this possible. The program will continue to expand as we renovate the Studio space. See the Title III homepage for the other classes that will be taught in the Studio and the timeline.

Why do I have to take math anyway?

Mathematics is a wonderful subject that helps us better understand the world around us. By studying math, you are training your brain to think logically, see patterns, and be attentive to details. Learning mathematics teaches us how to break complicated ideas into manageable subparts and then bring the parts together into a comprehensible whole. Mathematics shows us how to work in both abstract and concrete realms, and how the two relate. All of these are skills that will help you no matter what career you choose. Mathematics is for everyone, and everyone can succeed in and enjoy their math classes!

Who is Glenn T. Smith?

Glenn was the chairman of the Department of Mathematics from 1992 through 2001. During that time Glenn led the evolution of the department from traditional thinking about mathematics teaching and learning into 21st century pedagogies. He was particularly drawn to looking at how technology could be effectively incorporated into the classroom to enhance student learning and understanding. It is largely as a result of the direction that he brought to the department that we are engaged in the opening of this mathematics studio. Unfortunately, Professor Smith unexpectedly passed away on campus in October of 2003. He was in the process of completing his 30th year at the college.