A vicious cycle develops. It leads to avoidance which leads to further math deficiency. Our culture, with its mistaken beliefs about mathematics , also contributes to the negative, anxious feelings too many people have about math. These beliefs or myths are dangerous because they are seldom questioned and are acted upon as if they were true. We do not teach or tutor mathematics.
Students also learn to improve their time management, learning, and study skills.
They learn to seek help and not to avoid doing math. Students tell us that the groups present them with tools which they employ to overcome their fears. They become aware of their habits and thought processes and are empowered to conquer their anxiety. They report that they find they can carry with them the skills and confidence they learn from the groups long past the end of the sessions. They are also able to apply what they have learned to non-math courses and other potentially stressful situations.