Math Lab makes changes to accomodates students
DREW STONE
News Writing Student
Fewer open seats and longer wait times for help are two things students will notice this semester in the Math Lab, compared to last semester.
“Enrollment in math classes has expanded 30 percent compared to a year ago,” said Max Simmons, Science and Math Division dean. “There are some concerns of the lab filling up.”
Steps have been taken to provide more space in the Math Lab, which was just built a few years ago.
“A countertop has been removed and replaced with an additional 20 tables and 40 chairs,” said Sharon Coleman, lab supervisor.
There are now upwards of 100 computers available for students.
“The lab staff is handling the increase really well,” said Senior Math Lab Assistant Christine Peck.
“We’ve had to shift some schedules around a little bit to help meet demand.
“There has been a slight increase in wait times for assistance, but we’re learning how to manage it,” Peck said.
Due to budget constraints, additional lab staff has not been hired to help with the increase in students.”
Several faculty members have moved their office hours into the Math Lab in an effort to ease wait times.
“The lab staff seems to be doing well considering the increase, although it does look like they could use extra help,” said Jens-Karl Jenton, games design major, gazing across the students immersed in their equations.
Jentoft uses the lab for assistance with College Algebra homework.
He noted that the lab thins out a bit in the evenings.
“Demand for the lab fluctuates with tests, but there is a noticeable decrease in students in the evenings and on Saturday,” Peck said.
For more information, students can contact the Math Lab at 405-682-1611, ext. 7291.
