Eastern Michigan University
SI FAQs
What is SI?
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is an academic support program that targets historically difficult undergraduate classes. SI is a non-remedial approach to learning enrichment that increases student performance and retention. SI offers regularly-scheduled, out-of-class review sessions to all students enrolled in a targeted course. SI study sessions are informal seminars in which students review notes, discuss readings, develop organizational tools and prepare for examinations. Additionally, students learn how to integrate course content with reasoning and study skills.
What is an SI Leader?
SI leaders are currently registered students who have previously earned a high grade in the targeted course. Faculty typically recommends the leaders who facilitate the SI sessions. SI leaders act as role models by attending lecture, taking notes and listening closely to the professor. The SI coordinating team trains them in how to be effective facilitators and receive ongoing supervision.
How does SI work?
At each session, the SI leader will guide the students through the course concepts. SI leaders will help students make good use of their time and share the strategies he/she used to be successful in the course. SI leaders work directly with the course professor in preparing for the SI sessions, in order to incorporate important and relevant course material into his/her session.
What's in it for me?
Students who attend SI sessions statistically earn better grades. Research demonstrates that students who attend SI sessions earn on average one half to one full letter grade higher than their classmates who choose not to attend. Students are also able to transfer the skills they learn to other classes that do not fit the SI model.
How can I check to see if SI is offered for my course?
SI leaders will make an announcement on the first day of class.
When do SI sessions start?
SI sessions begin between the 2nd and 3rd week of the semester. SI leaders will have students in the class complete a short survey regarding their availability. After reviewing the surveys, the SI leader will announce times and locations for sessions during the next class period. Each SI leader typically sets up two to three review sessions a week.
How much do SI services cost?
SI sessions are free! Students are encouraged to attend as often as they like!
