Brian A. Mercer

Phone:
(217) 353-2311

Fax: 
(217) 373-3898

This page contains information about MAT 124 College Algebra online math classes I am teaching in fall of 2008.  For information about courses taught by other professors or general information about online math classes at Parkland, go to the Mathematics Department Online Course Information website.

Prerequisites
Taking math online is difficult, so we have extra prerequisites for these sections.  You must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA or better and have received a B or higher in the prerequisite course (or have equivalent assessment).  If you are repeating a course, you generally will not qualify to take the online section.

Online Courses I Teach

MAT 124 College Algebra
     This course has two course prerequisites:  Geometry and Intermediate Algebra
     This course is not offered online in the summer.
     Sample Syllabus  Syllabi may vary, but this gives you an idea what to expect.

Things to ask yourself before taking math online

1.  How many credits will you be taking, including this class?  Do not overload yourself, because an online math class takes a lot of time.  For MAT 124, allow 15-20 hours minimum each week. 

2.  Do you have the ability to work independently?  You will have the opportunity to ask for help from me or from peer tutors, but you must be able to learn on your own.

3.  Do you have internet access at home?  You need consistent access to the internet, so you should not depend on access at Parkland or at the library.

4.  How fast is your internet connection?  Slow connections can cause you to take too long on exams and not finish.  Especially for MAT 124, you really need DSL or Broadband. 

5.  Why do you want to take an online class?  If you are unable to come to campus, this may be a good option for you.  But if you CAN take the class on campus, it is usually better to do so. 

6.  Are you able to come to campus twice during the semester, once for a midterm exam and once for a final exam?  If not, you will need to find a school near you with a Testing Center to proctor your exams. 

 Requesting Permission to Enroll

1.  Make sure you have a 2.5 GPA or higher.
2.  Make sure you have passed College Geometry, or that your geometry placement score shows placement into your desired course.
3.  Make sure you have passed Intermediate Algebra with a B or higher, or that your algebra placement score shows a strong MAT 108/124 placement.
4.  Contact an Advisor in our Counseling and Advising Center to request permission to enroll.
5.  Once you are enrolled, check your Parkland email about a week before the class starts for information.

This page was last updated on 04/14/08.