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All about the Prep and Learning Module

What is the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module?

After the assessment, a targeted Prep and Learning Module is available for you to review and learn material, and to improve placement and eventual course outcomes.

Why would I use the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module?

If you do not place into the desired math course, the Prep and Learning Module may assist you in reaching the required minimum score for placement into the course.

All students are strongly encouraged to spend several hours using the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module. Even if you have achieved placement in your desired course, time spent in ALEKS will better prepare you for your upcoming course and ultimately lead to better grades.

Does progress in an ALEKS Prep and Learning Module count toward placement?

No, you must complete a new placement assessment to change your placement result. Click on the Placement tab on the upper right of the page from within ALEKS. Only your placement assessment results will be used for course placement.

Is there a fee for the Prep and Learning Module available through ALEKS?

The 6-month Prep and Learning Module is free to all University of Memphis students as a means of improving math knowledge and retention. You log into the Prep and Learning Module through the Student tab in myMemphis portal. After logging into the myMemphis portal, click on the "Student Pages" tab and then "My Resources" to locate the ALEKS channel.

How does the Prep and Learning Module work?

Once you complete the initial ALEKS assessment, you will be assigned a Prep and Learning Module to review and learn math concepts. After you begin the learning module, you will work on increasing your math knowledge until you are satisfied with your progress. Along the way, you will see progress reports that indicate your current knowledge level. At any point you may choose to complete a new assessment by clicking on the placement tab on the upper right of the page within ALEKS. If you achieve your desired score for the course your advisor recommended, you may choose to stop the Prep and Learning Module. If you do not receive your desired score, you may continue using the Prep and Learning Module for the full 6-month period to achieve the desired score.

Can I retake the ALEKS Placement Assessment immediately?

You must wait 48 hours after your initial placement assessment before attempting another. There is generally no benefit to retaking the assessment immediately after completing a prior attempt. Unlike the SAT or ACT, you cannot improve your results by simply retaking the assessment without spending time in the Prep and Learning Module to refresh material that you may have forgotten or to learn new material.

Once I begin the Prep and Learning Module, is there a minimum amount of time required before taking another assessment?

The second assessment may be started 48 hours after the first assessment. However, we encourage students to spend several hours in the Prep and Learning Module before taking another assessment. Most students do not improve their score until they utilize the Prep and Learning Module to work on their math skills.

  • 2nd attempt—required to wait 48 hours.
  • 3rd attempt—required to complete 3 additional hours of work in the Prep and Learning Modules before attempting assessment.
  • 4th attempt—required to complete 3 additional hours of work in the Prep and Learning Modules before attempting assessment.
  • 5th attempt—required to complete 3 additional hours of work in the Prep and Learning Modules before attempting assessment. 

What are ALEXS Knowledge Checks?

While working in a Prep and Learning Module, you will periodically complete a Knowledge Check to make sure you have mastered the topics you gained in Learning Mode. If you do not show mastery during the Knowledge Check, the topics will be added back into your Learning Pie so you can review them again.

How long can I use the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module?

Once students begin the Prep and Learning Module, they may use it for up to 6 months. Students using the learning module should check the email account provided to ALEKS for reminders about the amount of time remaining in the learning module.

Can I receive additional time in the Learning Module?

Once the 6-month period is up, students cannot receive additional time in the learning module.

How long is my ALEKS assessment score valid?

Your placement result is valid for 6 months. Math is a discipline that requires practice. After 6 months, students who have not taken a college-level math course need to retake the ALEKS assessment so that they can be sure to take the math course that is best for their skills and knowledge.