John Coburn

                                                            Mathematics Department

 

Contact Information   

Mathematics Department

St. Louis Community College

At Florissant Valley

3400 Pershall Road

St. Louis, MO 63135-1499

 

Office: SM 272

 

Phone: 314-513-4343

 

e-mail: jcoburn@stlcc.edu

 

FAX: 314-513-4199

 

 

Office Hours

 

Click on this link:    OFFICE HOURS

 

 

Grading Policy

  • Number of Tests/Quizzes

Normally two or three quizzes per chapter covering assigned homework, followed by a chapter test. I also give a comprehensive final examination. As part of department policy, there are no make-up quizzes or tests. However, the two lowest quiz grades and the lowest test grade are dropped when final grades are computed.

  • Homework Policy

Homework is assigned each class session and students are expected to devote 1.5 to 2 hours completing the assignment in preparation for the next days work and the pending quiz/test.

  • Attendance Policy

Students are expected to attend all classes. If a student misses class, he/she is responsible for getting the assignment and learning the missed work. I will provide assignments but not class notes (you must get the notes form another student). Attendance and class participation will affect border-line grades, as well as the special grades I and PR.

  • Points other than Tests/Quizzes (projects, writing assignments, etc)

On occasion, special interest problems, current events, and topics which extend a mathematical concept will be offered for extra credit up to a specified maximum.

Description of Teaching Style

  • Lecture vs. Collaborative

I am in “teaching mode” 60 – 80 percent of the time.  The remaining time is used for students to test the ideas being introduced, begin homework assignments, ask questions over current or previous tests, quizzes and/or assignments, and in support of student learning in a one-on-one environment. While in teaching mode, (sometimes fallaciously called a lecture), the discussion is usually filled with humor, real-world connections, dialogue with students and other forms of student involvement and participation.  I frequently use overhead projections and graphing calculator screens to illustrate concepts and to help students develop better understanding.  I expect students to actively take notes and work problems while in class.  I expect every student to participate.  I often call on students by name.