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What to do With the Help of Your Instructor

The instructor knows the material that you are trying to learn, and more importantly, the test. Your instructors chose to teach at Jackson Community College for a reason. they like to teach. They all have the same desire to help you learn new and interesting material. They all have hours each week that they are in their office for your benefit. You are paying good money for this education; you should make the most of it. No instructor dislikes students who come for help; it shows that you care about the material and your success.

The purpose of the meeting with your professor is to better understand the material. Prepare for your meeting by having:

  • Reviewied your notes and textbook up to that point to identify issues that you don't clearly understand.
  • Written down three or four good questions, such as a point needing clarification, potential topics for a paper or presentation, questions about the most effective ways to study the material, etc.

Other notes:

  • If you do contact your instructor, have a clear purpose for this communication.
  • Don't be late for scheduled appointments. Write down your questions.
  • Ask your professor for studying tips. Don't wait until the end of the semester.
  • Check the syllabus for the instructor's available times. Remember that teaching is not your professor's only responsibility. Don't expect that she or he will always be available at your convenience.

Be realistic about expectations for yourself!

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