Mathematics & Computer Science Makes Changes for Your Success
posted by Krystal Nelms | March 2, 2018 | In NewsThere are few changes in the Department of Mathematics & Computer Science at Fayetteville State University impacting many mathematics courses.
First, the software MathXL is now a part of student tuition available Spring 2018 at Fayetteville State University. Prior to the spring 2018 semester, students were paying out of pocket for it.
Dr. Radoslav Nickolov, department chair, stated: “That this was needed.”
A lot of students couldn’t purchase their software on time due to lack of funds. By the time students did get funds to purchase the software, their first test was coming up and any homework due prior to that test was not completed.
Dr. Nickolov stated: “[The way it used to be] made it hard for the students. It was a process that had to take place, with the university, textbook publisher, and bookstore working together to make this happen. The product is better, cheaper, and available through Canvas first day of class to students now.”
Second, the Smarthinking online tutoring is now available as a learning aid through MathXL as well. While
Smarthinking has been available on Canvas for some time, it can now be accessed from within Math XL study
plans and homework assignments.
Dr. Nickolov stated: “You put your problem in and the online tutor can see exactly what problem you’re working on.” He also stated, “Hopefully students will be more successful having the software at the beginning of the semester along with Smarthinking.”
Dr. Nickolov has been with Fayetteville State University for 13 years and enjoys seeing students succeed. He noted some other programs and policies students can take advantage of for more success.
First, he encourages students to use the Math Support Center. The center offers free drop-in tutoring for students enrolled in math courses at FSU. The center also includes a computer lab and has graphing calculators available for loan. It is located in 216-C Helen T. Chick Building.
Second, he said that “it is very important that every student takes advantage of the extension grade contract.” An extension grade contract may be assigned in lieu of a final grade of a D or F. Instead, if they do get a D or an F, it would be “EX-D” or as “EX-F,” and is not calculated into the students grade point average, but it will remain on the student’s transcripts. Some see it as a grade insurance policy. To be eligible for the extension grade, this contract
can only be used the first time a student takes the course at FSU. It also requires at least 10 hours of academic
support services, and the student needs to complete all requirements for the course. The instructor will
certify the student’s completion of the course material and a representative with academic support services will
verify academic support requirements are met. The students that receive the extension grade are required to re-enroll the following next semester to complete the course. If the student does not re-enroll in the course, the
extension grade will revert to a D or F and will be counted in the student’s grade point average.
“It must be done no later than the fifth week or no later than the second week of an eight-week term. Even if
the student feels that they are going to be okay and pass. It can’t hurt, only help,” he said.
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