Supplemental Instruction

Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a non-remedial approach to learning that supports students toward academic success by integrating “what to learn” with “how to learn.” SI consists of regularly scheduled out-of-class group study sessions driven by students’ needs. Sessions are facilitated by trained peer leaders (i.e., SI Leaders) who utilize collaborative activities to ensure peer-to-peer interaction in small groups. SI is implemented in historically difficult courses in consultation with academic staff and is supported and evaluated by a trained supervisor.  Research has shown that SI sessions earn a half to a full letter grade higher and earn D’s, F’s, and withdraw from courses less frequently than students who do not attend SI sessions (Dawson, 2014).

If you have an interest in attending supplemental instruction sessions, becoming a SI Leader, or have any questions about the program, please contact Hannah Kuno, Coordinator of Academic Support Services, at (507) 537-6820 or Hannah.Kuno@smsu.edu. 

Students can find additional information about SMSU’s Supplemental Instruction Program on the Deeann Griebel Student Success Center’s homepage:

 Dawson, P., van der Meer, J., Skalicky, J., & Cowley, K. (2014). On the effectiveness of supplemental instruction: A systematic review of supplemental instruction and peer-assisted study sessions literature between 2001 and 2010. Review of Educational Research, 84(4). https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654314540007