Tips for Maximizing Math Lab Resources

Sign-in: Sign in at the Log Book at the front of the room.  The book is divided into sections by class.  These records allow us to obtain additional funding when we see a need for help in a particular class or in the overall usage in the Lab.

Ask Questions: Many students work on their homework in the Lab and often have long periods when they are not asking questions of the tutors.  When this happens, the tutors may focus their attention on something to keep themselves occupied.  When you have a question, ask it and make sure that you attract the tutors’ attention, even if they appear to be doing something.  The tutors are there to help you and are only looking at something else because they don’t want to stand around staring at a room full of busy people.  Raising your hand is a good first step to attracting attention.  If this does not work, say “Question” to attract their attention.  If you do not want to draw attention to yourself by speaking, approach a tutor and ask for help.  There should be two or three tutors in the room at any time, so if you see that one tutor is busy, attract the attention of one of the others.  Sometimes the Lab is very busy and you will have to wait to get help.  Please be patient, we want to help as many people as possible.

Help Orient Tutor: Mathematics questions can often be answered in many different ways.  The tutor needs to figure out the way that is right for the class that you are in and the material that you already know.  It is very helpful if you tell the tutor which class you are in, explain how much of the problem you understand, and exactly where you are having difficulty.  Allow the tutor a few minutes to read the problem and flip through the section that it is from.  Remember, they tutor many subjects and have to adjust their thinking to your course.

Find Time/Tutor that Fits You: The Math Lab can be very busy during some hours.  If this bothers you, find a time to come that is less busy.  You can just stop in at different times or ask a tutor if they know of hours that are less busy.  Also, tutors have different styles of tutoring.  Find a tutor whose style matches the way you learn.  You can look at the schedule and come when that tutor is available.