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The Plato Learning System

Looking for ways to improve your reading, writing or math skills?  A new option is available at the FMCC Learning Center. The Plato Learning System, a comprehensive software package, has recently been installed.  It consists of three levels of reading courseware, a writing series, and math courseware.  Once entered into the system, a student will be given an "assignment," various modules from the courseware that can be general in nature or target specific needs.  The assignment can include assessment tests that will help determine a student's strengths and weaknesses.  The student will work independently at his or her own pace, receiving assistance when needed.  A report can be created to summarize a student's progress.

The reading courseware consists of vocabulary building, understanding, thinking about and judging what you read, reading various types of literature, reading for various disciplines, and reading for information.  The writing series includes modules on grammar, mechanics, structure and tone, and applications.  The mathematics courseware ranges from math fundamentals to Calculus II, including a math problem-solving module.  Anyone interested in using this software should contact Ellie Fosmire (x5502) or Susan House (x5501) for the reading or writing courseware or Bill Lomanto (x5503) for the math courseware.

Now is the time to develop  good study habits.  Starting early in the semester will help you in setting  up a routine and becoming comfortable with your study method.  The syllabus is an important tool for study preparation that gives you the goals and outlines the tasks you are expected to accomplish.  Keep on track with reading assignments.  Plan out your work for the entire semester.  Doing the work on a steady basis will help to avoid overload and burnout.  Try to get the most difficult tasks out of the way first.  This will lighten your load at the end of the class when finals are taking place.  Having a special place to study (see study groups article) makes things easier.  Set up a schedule for studying.  Your plan should look something like, 50 minutes of work and then a 10 minute break.  If you get tired or bored switch to another task.  Stop studying when you are no longer being productive.    Study with a friend, quiz each other and compare notes.  For a guided outline to study preparation stop by the Learning Center.