2003 IRISH SCIENTIST YEAR BOOK

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University of Limerick
Michael Wallace, John O'Donoghue & Helen MacMullen
Mathematics Learning Centre at UL

Students using the Mathematics Learning Centre in UL

The Mathematics Learning Centre is a special initiative of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Limerick and is funded under the HEA Targeted Initiatives Scheme (Retention). It follows on research work conducted at UL, by Prof John O'Donoghue, into the need for additional supports for some students in mathematics at Third Level. When it opened for business in Sept 2001, it was the only such centre in Ireland. The Mathematics Learning Centre offers a friendly, flexible, student-centred approach to learning mathematics at university level in a well appointed specially fitted and resourced suite, and its services are available free of charge to all students studying at UL.

The activities of the Centre are justified on the basis that it is now well known that many capable students, for a variety of reasons, may find it difficult to achieve the required standards in mathematics to support their degree studies. Some of these students would be described as 'at risk' mathematically and, as experience and research have shown, would be most likely not to complete their degree programmes.

The Mathematics Learning Centre operates a daily drop-in centre that is very popular with students, where students can avail of a variety of services - including individual consultations and personalised instruction, and can access course texts and other learning aids such as computer-based tutorials. At these times, an experienced tutor is available to provide assistance in mathematics in a comfortable and relaxed environment. An extensive programme of support tutorials (evening) is also available to students, as is special exam-oriented study at appropriate times during term.

The Centre has a management team comprising Profs Michael Wallace (Head of Department), John O'Donoghue (Director), and Dr Helen MacMullen (Manager). The Centre also employs postgraduate students from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics as tutors, and their commitment and enthusiasm for the project has contributed in a significant way to its success.

Contact: Dr Helen MacMullen, E-mail: [email protected]