Since a new law was enacted affecting college students entering school in the fall 2007 semester or later, students have to stay on top of their drop hours.
A TCC student ran into some difficulty when he learned that the General College Physics class he took this semester required math skills, which he does not have, according to the Accuplacer exam.
Students are required to take the Accuplacer before registering for class.
The system for registration at TCC, either by way of the registrar’s office or computer, will not allow a student to register for a math class that he is not assessed to be ready for.
Although the TCC catalog describes specific calculus prerequisites for Engineering Physics, math requirements for General College Physics are vague. The registration process does not block a student from registering for this class.
The General College Physics syllabus provided by Raymond Benge, says proficiency in algebra and a basic understanding of trigonomic functions are required.
The student is concerned about fulfilling the science requirements for graduation and, because of the drop, he will now be a semester behind.
Another concern is the effect of the student’s dropped class on his financial aid—and if he will be able to continue receiving financial aid next semester.
Dr. Bryan Stewart, dean of math and science on SE Campus, said, “Most of our physics students are university level (from UTA) and already realize that math skills are essential in this type of course.”
All students should research requirements of courses and talk to an academic advisor prior to registration, Stewart said.
Freshmen attending after the fall 2007 semester have a limit of six courses they can drop throughout their entire college career and not just classes taken at TCC.
TCC should be aware that this error in the registration process is harmful to students.
Although there are steps a student can go through to get forgiveness on certain drop hours under special circumstances, much time can be saved by enhancing the registration process.
Adding block outs, which would control registration for physics courses in the same manner enrollment in math courses is regulated, would benefit everyone.
The student’s best interest should be considered because of tuition and other costs each student pays to attend TCC. If the quality of one person’s education is affected by failure to regulate something so simple as registering for classes, the best interest of all students suffers.
As long as obstacles to education are ignored by students, resolutions will not be found.
Students who have encountered this type of problem should report it to the dean on their campus.
The divisional deans have the ability to present potential problems of this nature for evaluation and solution.
