Supplemental Instruction Program Overview
What is SI?
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a free academic
assistance program that helps students
incorporate “how to learn” with “what to learn.”
The Supplemental Instruction program targets
historically difficult courses and places an SI
leader inside the classroom.
Is SI remedial?
SI is not for remedial students or courses. SI serves as a “safety net” for students who
want to continue to succeed and thrive in academics, those who want to maintain their
desired GPA, and those who want to improve academically. SI is for everyone enrolled in
the SI course section. SI is designed to reduce attrition rates and increase retention
rates.
Is SI the same as tutoring?
No. SI is designed to work with academic study groups. Tutoring is usually designed for
one-on-one or small group content review. The SI leader knows exactly what the
students cover in class, unlike tutors. The SI leader serves as a facilitator; they do not
re-teach course material. No new material is taught in SI sessions; SI encourages critical
thinking, collaborative learning, and study skills.
What do the SI Leaders do?
The SI leaders facilitate three or more group study sessions per week outside of class.
These study sessions are available to all students enrolled in the SI designated course.
The study sessions are voluntary; however, attendance is strongly encouraged.
What are the SI Leader qualifications?
All SI leaders are paid student workers who have taken the historically difficult course
and succeeded with an A or B in the course; they must also maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.
All SI leaders are recommended and approved by faculty members and trained in the SI process.
What is the overall purpose/goal of SI?
Research has proven that students who
attend SI sessions on a consistent
basis improve their final grades by 1/2
to one full letter grade and are
equipped with the necessary course
knowledge to become academically
independent. SI groups focus on critical
thinking skills, study skills, and
communication skills. The ultimate goal
of SI is to help SI participants become
independent critical thinkers with skills that will help them succeed academically.