FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Supplemental Instruction?

Supplemental Instruction is a peer- to-peer academic assistance program which provides weekly, peer-facilitated group study sessions for students taking historically difficult courses (those with high D, F or W rates).

SI study sessions are led by an SI leader, a student who have taken the class previously and were successful in it. SI Leaders are trained to facilitate group sessions where students can meet to gain their understanding of course material, review and discuss important concepts, develop study strategies and prepare for exams. SI is provided for all students who want to strengthen their understanding of course material and improve their grades; it is not just for those students who are struggling.

SI is a free service offered to all students.*SI participation is 100% voluntary*. Students may attend as many times as they choose.

How do I know if my course is supported with Supplemental Instruction?

During the first week of the semester, the SI Leader will announce and distribute information regarding the days, times, and location of upcoming SI study sessions. Your professor and SI leader will both continue to remind you throughout the semester of SI study session times.

What is an SI Leader?

SI leaders are students who have taken the class previously and were successful in it. They know the course content, and are eager and prepared to share with you what they know about the course content, and have learned over the years about how to study. They will be in class with you every day, hearing what you hear and reading what you read. Their job is to help you think about the course lectures, readings, assignments, and exams. Your SI leader will bring together course content and study skills, in a collaborative manner, to help you learn more efficiently.

What can I expect from an SI study session?

SI study sessions are led by a SI leader who has mastered the course material and has been trained to facilitate group sessions where students can meet to gain a better understanding of course material, review and discuss important concepts, develop study strategies and prepare for exams.

Where is the SI study session held?

During the first week of the semester, the SI Leaders will announce and distribute information regarding the days, times, and location of upcoming SI study sessions. Your professor and SI leader will both continue to remind you throughout the semester of SI study session times and location.

Is it mandatory to attend SI study sessions?

SI is an academic support program offered to all students. SI participation is 100% voluntary. Students may attend as many times as they choose. National SI research indicates that students who regularly attend SI perform better on exams and earn higher final course grades.

What can I do to prepare for an SI study session?

Because of the collaborative nature and all the personal interaction during SI sessions, you are expected to come prepared to study. This means you should always bring your textbook, lecture notes, class handouts, and/ or any sample problems you may have. Doing so makes SI sessions effective and guarantees the best use of your time.

However, SI does not replace class lecture/meetings. SI study sessions are meant to complement class lecture. You are expected to attend class meeting and lectures. SI is an academic support for the course; it is not an opportunity for you to skip class. Lastly, you are highly encouraged to attend SI on a weekly basis. National SI research indicates that students who regularly attend SI perform better on exams and earn higher final course grades.

When do sessions start?

SI sessions start the first or second week of classes. Each SI Leader typically has one or more review sessions per week.

What’s in it for me?

Students who take advantage of SI can earn up to a full letter grade higher in SI courses than those who don't participate, and they are twice as likely to successfully complete the course. In addition, students have the opportunity to make social connections and gain study skills they can apply in any class. SI is for everyone, so give it a try!