Counseling
Math/Science Confidence: About Us
The Math/Science confidence program was designed to assist otherwise academically competent students who have problems with mathematics and science due to anxiety, psychological “blocks”, dislike of mathematics, previous ineffective teaching, or related difficulties. The Math/Science Confidence Group, which meets once a week for seven weeks, is available fall and spring for students who had special problems with math-related courses. Group sessions include strategies for overcoming avoidance and procrastination as well as stress management, and study and test-taking skills. To be eligible for the group, students have to be enrolled in a mathematics, math-related or science class, be doing well in other courses, carry a minimum GPA of 2.5, and have to be evaluated by the group leaders in a math screening. Members of the group take pre and post measurements of their math/science anxiety. Most group members are able to translate their math confidence into improved performance in math and science courses.
The Math/Science Confidence program has gained in importance at the University as Universal Tracking has been implemented and the University sets goals not only for retaining more students but also for having more students graduating in their preferred majors. Additionally, with the advent of penalties for students and departments for excess credit hours, it is even more important for students not to have to retake courses.