Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I take the quizzes and exams?

Anywhere you want with a stable internet connection.

Are the quizzes and exams proctored?

No they are not.

Not proctored?! Does that mean I can use my notes and Google and ChatGPT?

You are welcome to use any resources you like EXCEPT asking other people. It is important that you demonstrate your own knowledge and skills.

Wait, seriously I can use ChatGPT and you won't fail me?

What is important to me is that you understand the material and can apply it on course assessments and in your future careers. Generative AI like Google Gemini and OpenAI's ChatGPT can be excellent tools for learning. I use them often when writing software, exploring new topics, or doing data analysis. I will not fail you for using these applications as a learning and research tool. Much like how I would not fail someone for searching the internet or looking information up in library books. But I do caution students to always think critically about the responses from chatbots as they may not provide correct answers.

How many times may I take the quizzes and exams?

You only have one attempt for each quiz and exam. Remember, once you begin the assessment, the timer will count down even if your internet connection is lost. I recommend taking the quizzes where/when you are certain of a stable internet connection.

I missed taking a quiz/exam, can I make it up?

There are no makeup quizzes or exams unless you have a documented medical emergency signed by a healthcare professional, no exceptions.

I have a trip planned, may I take the quiz/exam early?

Yes, you take any quiz or exam early if you contact me at least one week prior so I have sufficient time to set that up. You may not discuss the contents of that assessment with your classmates until after the official due date has passed.

Do I have to turn in the practice worksheets?

No, the worksheets in each module are for your practice only and need not be turned it. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the material on the worksheets.

Do I have to turn in any problems from the textbook?

No, textbook problems listed in each lecture are for your practice and not submitted to me. You may do as many as needed to gain mastery of the material. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about anything in the textbook.

Do I have to purchase a textbook for the course?

No, the textbook is a free Open Education Resource. All material you will be assessed on will come from my lectures. You may use the textbook authored by Ball, Hill and Scott that I have linked in the navigation menu above and for download here as supplemental reading and practice problems. The textbook is licensed under Creative Commons which means it is free to read, download, and print.

How do I get technical help with Lamaku?

All resources related to the Lamaku Learning Management System can be found here.

Is there a tutor available?

During the Fall and Spring semesters, the Learning Resource Center typically provides free tutoring for Leeward CC students depending on tutor availability. More information can be found here.

What is Lamaku Rush Hour?

From my 17 years of experience as a professor teaching online and as a student taking online courses, Laulima/Lamaku may get slow and unresponsive on Sunday evenings. I believe this is due to many students doing assessments at the last minute. I always recommend students to avoid this headache. It is very stressful to have the website crash when you are taking a quiz and the timer keeps counting down. Be proactive, plan ahead, and get your weekly quizzes completed early.

Is there any extra credit in the course?

No. There are no exam redos, no exam corrections, no volunteer activities, no extra assignments, or any way to earn extra credit points. This is a firm rule to maintain fairness to all students. You can rest assured knowing that none of your classmates are getting offered something you are not.

But my other professor offers extra credit and exam redos. I need an A grade to get into nursing school. PLEASE just this once. I won't tell anyone ok?

I understand that earning an A grade is important to you. I am happy that you take your college studies seriously. But I do not provide any opportunities for extra credit. I am available during office hours to lend you a helping hand with the material so you can focus on doing your best with the remaining course material. You are always welcome to email me with questions concerning the course material or your current grade.

Do you grade on a curve?

No. A curved grading distribution means that the average amount of total points in the course becomes a C course grade. For example, if you earned the average point totals which happened to be 90% then instead of earning an A you would receive a C. Ouch!

Curved grade distribution also means that your classmates are your competitors. Trust me, I went to the University of California and took classes with hundreds of pre-med students. The competition was fierce and bitter. You do not want this. I found that students are more successful in a cooperative learning environment.

If you earn 90% of the total points you earn an A, 80% is a B, etc. All students get the same opportunity to succeed without worrying about how your classmates do.

But what if everyone earns an A in the course? Then you will curve the grades right? You don't want to get fired.

No, I will not apply any grading curve. If every student works hard and meets the criteria for an A grade then that is wonderful! I give all students the same opportunity for success.

Less Common Questions but Ones I Have Received

I am pregnant and having a baby this semester. Can I be given an extension to take the quiz/exam a few weeks later?

Yes. Do not worry about grinding out chemical calculations while you are in labor. Please email me asap. I do require documentation from a medical professional for any quiz/exam extensions.

My child is having an important medical procedure and I am inquiring if I could get an extension for the quiz/exam?

Yes. I do not punish students for being real people with family responsibilities. I do require documentation from a medical professional for any quiz/exam extensions.

I am being deployed to another country and will not have consistent internet access in the field during the upcoming quiz/exam. Could I get an extension?

Yes. Thank you for serving our country! My dad was in the Army. I do require official documentation from a commanding officer for any quiz/exam extensions.

What is your favorite sushi?

I am addicted to spicy ahi from Genki, Sushi Bay, and Spicy Ahi and BBQ.

Why did you choose to be a teacher?

I am allergic to money and as a teacher I always be poor. Just kidding! I love learning new things and helping others. The students from the Leeward side of the island are wonderful.