What is Supplemental Instruction?

Supplemental Instruction (SI) is an internationally recognized, peer-driven program that strives to improve student success in challenging courses. 

How does it work?

SI takes the form of bonus weekly study sessions, offered in specific challenging courses.

These study sessions are led by SI student leaders – fellow students who have successfully completed the course and now help their peers achieve similar success.

Sessions are completely FREE, are offered in-person and online, and attendance is voluntary.

Statistics consistently show that students who attend SI do better in class than those who do not. 

How to Access Supplemental Instruction

If your course offers Supplemental Instruction, it will be announced the first week of class and shared on Canvas. SI student leaders may also introduce themselves during class.

What courses currently offer SI?

(This list changes every term, so check back regularly!)

• In biology: BIO-101, BIO-135, BIO-223 and BIO-233
• In chemistry: CHE-111 and CHE-112
• In math: MAT-137, MAT-191 and MAT-192
• In technology: CPT-115, CTP-150 and CTS-107

When and where are SI sessions held?

Access the menus below to view SI session times.

NOTE: If a session is listed as online, see Canvas notifications from the SI leader for meeting link.

What happens during a typical SI session?

During SI sessions, the SI student leader guides the group in:

• Reviewing materials from the current week
• Discussing questions, offering practice problems and going over difficult concepts
• Games, collaborative activities and hands-on practice
• Sharing tips, tricks and new study skills to prepare for tests and quizzes
• Plus much more!

Sessions are purposefully designed to help participants gain confidence, become more independent as learners and achieve greater success in the course. 

Think of SI as a way to interact with the course material in a more active, informal and student-centered way. 

SI sessions are not a place for:

• Sharing exam or homework answers
• Private one-on-one tutoring
• A place to complain about an instructor

Did we mention SI sessions are 100% FREE?

FAQ

How much does SI cost?

Nothing! SI is completely and totally free, and always will be!

Is SI available in every course?

Each term, certain STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) courses are designated for SI based on student need and faculty request. SI is not available in all courses; check back each term to see what courses are offering SI.

What if there is no SI leader in my lecture class?

Any student enrolled in a course for which SI is offered may attend any SI session for that course. You do not need to be in the same section as the SI student leader, or even have the same professor.

What if I'm unable to attend any of the offered SI times?

SI session times sometimes change during term to meet student needs. Keep your eye on Canvas notifications to learn of any updates! Also, be sure to take advantage of online SI session offerings, as these can sometimes make attendance easier.

Is SI right for me?

Do any of the following apply to you?

• I'm struggling with a tough course.
• I work really hard and study, but I'm still not earning the grade I want.
• I have a good grade, but I'd like it to be even better!
• I'm looking for ways to improve my study skills.
• I would like to find a like-minded study group.

No matter your situation, SI is the place for you. Stop by and give it a try. There's nothing to lose, and you just might make new friends along the way!

SI is Recruiting!

• Looking for a great job as a student?
• Do you enjoy supporting your peers and have a strong academic skill set?
• Want to be paid to develop your leadership skills and résumé at the same time?

Become an SI student leader

Qualifications:

Being an effective SI student leader requires maturity, good organization and time-management skills, strong subject knowledge, and an ability to communicate clearly. To become a student leader, you must:

• Have earned an A or B in an SI course within the last three terms (see box on the right of the page for list of courses SI is currently recruiting for)
• Have a strong interest in and ability to work with peers in small group settings
• Be able to get a recommendation from a professor who teaches the SI course
• Be in good standing with the college (having no past-due payments or fines)

For information email Matt Bem, coordinator for STEM Initiatives and Supplemental Instruction, at [email protected]. 

Summer Notice - SI Not Offered

Please be aware that Supplemental Instruction at AACC is not offered during the summer session.

SI is offered exclusively during the fall and spring terms and will return with the start of the upcoming fall term.