The Emporium Model
- Eliminates all lectures and replaces them with a learning resource center model featuring interactive software and on-demand personalized assistance.
- Depends heavily on instructional software, including interactive tutorials, practice exercises, solutions to frequently asked questions, and online quizzes and tests.
- Allows students to choose what types of learning materials to use depending on their needs, and how quickly to work through the materials.
- Uses a staffing model that combines faculty, GTAs, peer tutors and others who respond directly to students’ specific needs and direct them to resources from which they can learn.
- May require a significant commitment of space and equipment.
- More than one course can be taught in an emporium, thus leveraging the initial investment.
Examples: Mandatory Lab Hours Chosen by Students
Mandatory attendance (e.g., a minimum of 3.5 hours weekly in the emporium) ensures that students spend sufficient time on task and receive on-demand assistance. These hours may be scheduled at the student’s convenience.
Mandatory weekly group meetings enable instructors to follow up where testing has identified weaknesses or emphasize particular applications. Group activities help build community among students and with instructors.
Louisiana State University: College Algebra
The University of Alabama: Intermediate Algebra
The University of Idaho: Precalculus
Examples: Pre-Scheduled Mandatory Lab Hours
Mandatory attendance (e.g., a minimum of 3.5 hours weekly in the emporium) ensures that students spend sufficient time on task and receive on-demand assistance. These hours are scheduled by the institution for student cohorts.
Mandatory weekly group meetings enable instructors to follow up where testing has identified weaknesses or emphasize particular applications. Group activities help build community among students and with instructors.
Cleveland State Community College: Basic Math, Elementary Algebra and Intermediate Algebra
Jackson State Community College: Basic Math, Elementary Algebra and Intermediate Algebra
Northeast State Technical Community College: Basic and Developmental Reading
Example: Lab Hours Chosen by Students
An open attendance model can be used when students are highly motivated, respond well to greater flexibility and are accustomed to scheduling work in the emporium around their other course responsibilities.
Virginia Tech: Linear Algebra
