MATH STAMPEDE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Understanding ALEKS PPL

Q: What is ALEKS PPL and how does it work?

A: ALEKS PPL is Placement, Preparation and Learning, an adaptive, web-based math program designed to place you in the right course and strengthen your skills. It includes three parts:

1. Initial Placement Assessment – A 60–90 minute test with up to 25 questions to evaluate your current math knowledge.

2. Prep and Learning Module – A personalized, self-paced review plan that helps you focus only on the skills you need.

3. Additional Assessments – You can take up to four more placement assessments to try for a higher placement.

Q: How can ALEKS PPL help me succeed in college math?

A: ALEKS PPL strengthens your foundational skills, boosts your confidence, and ensures you start in the right math course. The result: better grades, less frustration, and a smoother path to graduation.

This is your chance to:

Q: What does “adaptive” mean in ALEKS PPL?

A: Adaptive means personalized. ALEKS PPL learns your strengths and weaknesses as you answer questions, then creates a learning path tailored to you.

Q: How is ALEKS PPL different from traditional math homework?

A: ALEKS PPL isn’t one-size-fits-all. It identifies what you already know and focuses only on what you need to learn — no wasted time on topics you’ve already mastered.

Q: Will ALEKS PPL make me redo things I already know?

A: No! ALEKS PPL quickly determines which topics you’ve mastered and skips them. You won’t waste time reviewing material you’ve already got down.

Q: What happens after each preparation and learning session?

A: ALEKS PPL adjusts your personalized learning path to keep you moving toward mastery. It’s like having a tutor who learns more about you every time you study together.

Q: What’s the benefit of taking more than one ALEKS PPL assessment?

A: With each assessment, you can show how much you’ve learned. Many students improve their placement and get into a higher-level class—saving time, money, and reducing the number of math classes they need to take.

Q: I used ALEKS in high school.  How is this different?

A: The PPL in ALEKS PPL stands for Placement, Preparation. and Learning.   It’s used to place you in the right college math course, includes proctored assessments, and gives you a full year of personalized learning to boost your skills, save time, and graduate faster.

Cost

Q: Do I need to buy ALEKS PPL?

A: No! By enrolling in the MATH STAMPEDE program, you get a free license for one year.  This software can be used while you take a Fall and/or Spring mathematics class if you need to brush up on your skills. There are only 200 free licenses.  After those are distributed, the cost is $25 for the year’s license.

Time and Access

Q: How much time will it take?

A: Each assessment takes 60–90 minutes. After that, you’ll use the Prep & Learn module at your own pace.

Q: Can I retake the placement assessment?

A: Yes! You can reassess up to four more times.

Q: How long do I have to wait until I can take another ALEKS PPL assessment?

A: You’ll need to complete at least 5 hours in the Prep & Learn module and wait 48 hours between assessments.  Many students spend more time and see even better results!

Q: Is this just a summer thing?

A: No — you’ll have access to ALEKS PPL for a full 12 months. Use it anytime during the Fall or Spring to refresh your skills or prepare for your next math course.

Who is MATH STAMPEDE and ALEKS PPL for?

Q: I don’t like math and just want to get it over with. Is MATH STAMPEDE for me?

A: Absolutely. MATH STAMPEDE is designed to help you succeed—even if math isn’t your favorite subject. You’ll get tools to make your first math class easier, less stressful, and more successful. The best way to succeed in college math is to go straight through and MATH STAMPEDE helps you do just that.

Q: I took math my senior year—do I really need this?

A: If math is fresh in your mind, that’s great! But MATH STAMPEDE can still help you sharpen specific skills and possibly place into a higher-level course, saving you time and money.

Q: Is this only for math majors?

A: No! All students who take math courses at Marshall can benefit from better placement and stronger skills.

Support

Q: What if I need help with math?

A: The Herd’s got your back! MATH STAMPEDE faculty mentors will check in regularly throughout the summer.

Q: What if I need help with ALEKS PPL?

A: Technical support is ready if you need help accessing or using ALEKS PPL.  Visit the ALEKS Support Home Page.