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Electronics Department:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. When can I start the course?
A.   All "hybrid self paced"  courses can only be started at the beginning of each semester.  The three "pure self paced" courses can be started during the semester, with the instructor's permission. 
   

 

Q. Is there a teacher in the classroom?
A.   Yes, there is a teacher in the room at all times, during the day and evening sessions.
 

 

Q. There is a teacher in the classroom, but he is not the teacher I have for lecture.  Can I still ask him for help?
A.   Yes, there are three electronics instructors and they all spend time in the Open Lab.  Please feel free to ask any instructor in the room for assistance.  Never let your question go un-answered.
   

 

Q. There is a teacher in the classroom, but he seems busy.  I need help but don't want to "bother him".
A.   You are not disturbing them when you ask for help.  They are in the Open Lab to help you with the course.  Never let your question go un-answered.  The only time an instructor can't help you, is during a lecture.  If you have a questions during a lecture, ask one of your fellow students for help or simply wait until the lecture is done.
   

 

Q. Do I have to come to the lectures?
A. Yes, if there is a lecture associated with your class.  
   

 

Q. How long do the lecture last?
A. The lectures typically last for 60 to 90 minutes.  
 

 

Q. If there are video tapes of the subject matter, why do I have to attend lecture?
A. The video tapes are available to supplement your learning experience.  They are not meant to replace the lectures. 
 

 

Q. I am taking a "pure self-paced" course, can I finish before the end of the semester?
A. Yes, you can finish the course anytime within the semester, provided all the work has been done.
   

 

Q. I am taking two "pure self-paced" courses, what is the best way to approach them?
A. It is best to focus on one course until it is finished and then start the second course.  By doing this, you will have a better chance of finishing both courses by the end of the semester.
   

 

Q. I am taking a "hybrid self-paced" course, can I attend more than one lecture?
A. Yes, you need only to attend one lecture per week.  However, you are welcome to attend as many lectures as are offered, for the course. 
   

 

Q. I am taking a "hybrid self-paced" course during the day and have a dentist appointment scheduled during the lecture time.  None of the other day time lectures will fit into my schedule.  Can I attend an evening lecture?
A. Yes, but be sure to let your instructor know.  The lecture schedule is posted in the front of the room and is handed out to all students at the beginning of the semester. (once the class decides on it)
 

 

Q. Can I work on my CBT or lab experiments while other students are attending a lecture?
A. Yes, the lab stations are away from the lecture area.  We simply request that you refrain from talking during the lecture and save your CBT or lab questions until after the lecture.
 

 

Q. I am taking a "pure self-paced" course, what if I don't understand the CBT material. 
A. The instructor is always in the room.  He can answer any questions that you might have? 
 

 

Q. Do I really need to purchase a drawing template for these courses?
A. No, the purchase of a drawing template is optional.  However, it will help you in all of your electronics courses.  The book store has a very nice schematic symbol drawing template available.
 

 

Q. Can I take the video tapes home?
A. No, we ask that the tapes stay in the Resource Center.  
 

 

Q. Do I really need a TI-86 Calculator?
A. Yes & No, you will need a calculator that perform "complex" math.  All examples given in class will be on the TI-86.  The instructors can not support other calculators.  If you are comfortable using your calculator for complex number, then feel free to use whatever you are comfortable with.
   

 

Q. Do I really need to do the Learning Objects?
A. Yes, they will help you understand the material.  They can be accessed via the web, from any location.  They are located at http://cws.gtc.edu/programs/objects
   

 

Q. Do I need to buy MultiSIM or Electronic WorkBench.
A. No, a student copy is included with your DC/AC I and your Digital Electronics Text Books.  The software is also available in the electronics labs for your use.
   

 

Q. What are the hours of the Resource Center?
A. Monday through Thursday     7:30 am - 10:00 pm      
Friday    8:00 am - 4:00 pm              
   

 

Q. Is the any where else I an go for help?
A. The Academic Support Center has tutors available.  For further information, please visit their web site.      
 

 

Q. What is "that little blue book" and can I really use it on exams?
A. The little blue book is the "Electronics Pocket Handbook" by Daniel L. Metzger.  ISBN 0-13-784190-6  This book can be used on all Electronics' exams, on the Racine Campus.  This book is a great resource for the student and is small enough to fit into their tool case, upon graduation.

 Do you have a question?  Don't let it go un-answered. 

 


Last Revised:   08/15/2008
Webmaster: Patrick Hoppe