kufun

Our mission is to increase student persistence and success in historically difficult courses by providing a collaborative peer learning environment that improves understanding of subject content, fosters critical thinking, and strengthens study skills.

SI leaders are assigned to courses that are deemed historically difficult. The SI leader’s role is to attend all class sessions and to organize at least two study group sessions per week outside of class.  During class sessions, SI leaders will exemplify a model student – arrive on time, take notes, and keep abreast of assignments.   In the study group sessions, SI leaders facilitate the students in active learning – discussing and reviewing concepts, preparing for tests and exams, and developing study strategies appropriate to the course material. 

All students are encouraged to attend SI study-group sessions.  The sessions are an opportunity for students to learn in an inclusive and non-intimidating environment with their peers.  The SI sessions reinforce difficult course concepts, promote and model effective study strategies, and forms a network of study partners.  SI sessions engage students which allow them to go to class prepared with a better understanding of the course material and thereby, are able to enrich discussions in class.

SI leaders are highly qualified; they have successfully taken the courses, been recommended by faculty, and meet the minimum GPA requirement.  SI leaders attend training and professional development workshops throughout the semesters so as to improve and keep abreast of SI best practices.

Students who attend SI sessions can expect:

• SI Leaders to be prepared with engaging activities covering the most difficult concepts from class.
• To work collaboratively with peers in an inclusive and unintimidating environment.
• To develop effective study skills strategies and how to prepare for tests.

Students who attend SI sessions should:

• Arrive at SI sessions on time.
• Bring textbook, notebook, class notes, handouts, pen/pencil.
• Come prepared: make a true attempt at assignments - read course material, outline topics, and highlight specific questions. 
• Have a positive attitude -  learn what to learn while learning how to learn

Next step?

• If an SI leader is assigned to the course, he/she will introduce themselves in class during the first week as well as throughout the semester.
• Students provide contact information so the SI leader can announce SI session days/times and topics to be covered using various means of communication.