Supplemental Instruction is a program instituted at universities nationwide, and students who participate regularly throughout the semester have been found, statistically, to have greater success rates in the course for which SI is offered. SI is offered in those classes that have high rates of enrollment and high rates of D's, F's, or withdrawals. At the University of Vermont, the courses with which SI is affiliated has traditionally been large lecture classes in the sciences and Economics.
The program's success hinges on the merits of targeted practice and review of class material and the increased level of engagement with this material that communication within small-group study provides. SI leaders attend lecture and take notes along with students, then prepare two, hour-long review sessions each week that focus on key skills and concepts presented. The sessions are further beneficial for students, however, in that they often incorporate valuable study skills, techniques, or strategies within practical applications of the course material In addition to fostering collaborative learning, that which is most effective in terms of retention of new knowledge, the program integrates how to learn with what to learn.
Leading Supplemental Instruction requires a substantial time commitment and dedication. SI Leaders are expected to:
Supplemental Instruction Leaders work within the peer-tutoring model embraced by the Learning Co-op. As students, they have taken the course for which they are leading SI (or an appropriate equivalent) and received a minimum grade of a B+. In addition, each leader must receive a recommendation by the faculty in the department ensuring their knowledge of the material. Often, SI Leaders have previously worked and continue to work as Subject-Area tutors in this discipline with the Learning Co-op.
$9.00 per hour ($9.75 if work-study) to start; with raises available with experience.
To apply, please contact Keith Williams, Tutor Program Coordinator (656-7964/keith.m.williams@uvm.edu) to set-up an interview.
Academic Support Programs values and advocates for diversity in its student services and recruitment practices.