Who registers for SKIL courses?
Any student who needs to review or develop skills in math, writing, or learning strategies (study skills) to be fully prepared for his/her college requirements may register for the classes. Enrollment in specific classes for incoming students may be the result of placement testing and SAT scores or based on recommendations from the Admissions Office or Advising Center. Students may choose to register for SKIL classes--or be referred by faculty members.
How do students register for the classes?
Students follow existing registration procedures. Students also complete a Learning Services Center intake form with either a department counselor or class instructor.
What basic skill classes are offered?
The following three classes are offered in the Learning Services Center: Mathematics for College (SKIL-096), Writing for College (SKIL-097), and Learning Strategies: Reading and Study Skills (SKIL-098).
What happens in the Mathematics for College class?
Students develop mathematical literacy by reviewing computational and selected algebraic functions, thereby preparing them for the College's Core Curriculum courses. The course includes an initial diagnostic placement test that determines the specific content units to be covered. Instruction is offered through lectures and small and large group discussion as well as individualized mode.
What happens in the Writing for College class?
Students develop an understanding of the components of clear written communication and prepare for Core Curriculum and college writing requirements. This course includes laboratory activities, lectures, group and individual instruction, discussions, and guided writing experiences.
What happens in the Learning Strategies: Reading and Study Skills class?
Students develop efficient and effective strategies to enhance their analytical skills, reading comprehension and rate, vocabulary development, and study and test-taking skills. These skill developments will benefit the student in many facets of college and lifelong learning. Students develop an appreciation of reading as a valuable means of learning. The course includes lectures, reading lab assignments, and individualized and small group instruction.
How are additive credits reflected on students' transcripts?
Although these credits do not satisfy graduation requirements, they are included on students' transcripts and figured into their cumulative average. They further count towards a student's full-time status (12 credits) for the specified semester. Also, success in any of these classes will support students' efforts to achieve in college courses and to maintain a strong cumulative average.
How are Learning Services Center basic skills courses graded?
Math, Writing and Learning Strategies carry the same grade notations as other College classes. During the first semester of enrollment in one of these classes, however, some students may be offered the option of a Pass Continue (PC) grade, which is a one-time-only grade assignment. This notation is used solely for SKIL courses. It indicates that a student has demonstrated both effort and progress in a Learning Services Center course, but requires additional time and work to complete the curriculum. A student who earns a PC grade needs to complete the course in the next successive semester of enrollment at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. A student is entitled to only one PC grade per SKIL course. Once a student is re-enrolled for such a course, he/she cannot withdraw from the course, and no further grades of PC can be awarded.
