Supplemental Instruction and Tutoring

Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a form of academic support that focuses on collaboration, group study, and interaction assisting students enrolled in "traditionally difficult" courses. SI consists of interactive review sessions that incorporate course content (what to learn) and study strategies (how to learn).

Sessions are held two times a week on a set day and time (decided each semester) and are led by a peer SI leader who has successfully completed the course in a previous semester. Any student enrolled in the SI supported course can attend these sessions. SI leaders prepare quizlets, practice problems, and interactive games, while also focusing on specific questions that students come in with. They provide support and lead by example through having a growth mindset, creating a welcoming environment, and demonstrating active listening skills. SI leaders are required to sit in on their SI supported course, so the material is fresh on their minds for preparing session plans.

If you attend SI sessions regularly, you can earn better grades in your courses. By attending SI sessions, you will gain a better understanding of the course material, learn more effective ways of studying, and get to know your fellow classmates.

Tutoring is provided for a selection of courses that are not supported by Supplemental Instruction, the SMART Center, or the Writing Center. Like an SI leader, a tutor is a student that has done exceptionally well in a course. These students meet with the professors regularly throughout the semester to be familiar with what students are currently learning in the course. Students can schedule the tutoring session by emailing and connecting with their course’s tutor.

Our SI leaders and tutors hold workshops throughout the semester for midterms and for finals preparation. These workshops are advertised by the Student Success Center and the SI Coordinator. They are available to all Catawba students interested in attending as they are applicable to all courses. The SI leaders and tutors have presented on multiple topics, including how to manage stress at midterms and finals, time management strategies, test taking strategies, and having a growth versus a fixed mindset.