Developmental Education

Developmental classes are offered to those students who do not pass a college placement test. This could be because the student has been out of class for several years or because his/her ability in one area is not quite at the college level. The student may also want to be placed in this class because of the anxiety he/she feels about a topic. The purpose of this program is to get students ready for college classes as quickly as possible, as well as improve workforce skills. Financial aid is available for these courses, but the students must pass an exam at the end of the term which allows them to proceed to the next level of college classes.

There are four areas of developmental classes in which a student may enroll; classes normally vary in the times they are offered. One semester they might be taught during the day, while the next semester they may be at night. Saturday classes may also be an option during certain semesters.

READING—During the past twenty-five years, knowledge about the reading process and how students learn has grown considerably. Academic reading requires that students can critically review what they have read and respond accordingly. This class offers a wide variety of educational readings which students will analyze through discussions and homework questions. Students can develop the reading and study strategies they need for future academic success.

WRITING—In this class, students will study the basics of grammar and do review work on the computer. Inclusion of writing assignments that are meaningful and reflect students’ interests and concerns are added because grammar and usage is something that must be practiced and recognized. This class is designed for anyone who needs a review of basic writing in order to advance to college classes or become a better writer in the workplace.

MATH—This course is designed not only to meet the needs of the traditional college student but also to serve the needs of returning students whose mathematical proficiency may have declined during years away from formal education. The course begins with basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division and proceeds through the elements of pre-algebra. Tutoring and study time is available in the Student Success Center. If you have math anxiety, this class is for you.

COMPUTERS—This class covers the basics of keyboarding, computer use, and technical vocabulary. The purpose of the class is to build both keyboarding skills and knowledge of basic computer directions. It is hoped that students will use this class to become better informed consumers. For those students who need to re-discover their typing skills or who may have great anxiety about taking a computer class, this class is a must.

If you have been wondering if you have the ability to start college classes and have considered it for a long time without going forward, come see us. We would like to start you on the path to academic success, self-fulfillment, and hope for a better future. If you would like more information about this program, please send an email to info@kilian.edu or call 605-221-3100.