Supplemental Instruction

Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a free peer-led program that can help you succeed in historically difficult courses.

Our guided study sessions encourage you to collaborate with other students while also teaching you what to learn and how to learn it. With each session, you'll develop your critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills.

How does SI work?

SI Leaders—people who have previously done well in a course—act as role models in peer-assisted study sessions.

SI Leaders:

Are trained to make group study sessions efficient and effective
Work with specified faculty
Attend all class lectures
Take notes

SI sessions are regularly scheduled, informal review sessions in which you:

Compare notes
Discuss readings
Develop organizational tools
Predict test questions
Learn how to learn while learning what to learn

What are the differences between SI and tutoring?

Supplemental Instruction (SI)	Tutoring
One SI Leader works with a group of students in regularly scheduled SI review sessions.	Tutors can work one-on-one or in groups, and by appointment or on a drop-in basis.
SI Leaders attend a section of the course to stay current with course content and prepare review sessions.	Some tutors may be assigned to a course section and offer tutoring by appointment or on a drop-in basis in their assigned center.
SI Leaders work with a specified faculty member.	Tutors are not associated with a specified faculty member. They may communicate with faculty or departments to stay updated on course content to better serve you.
SI Leaders are part-time and have successful experience in the course they support.	Tutors can be full-time or part-time and are professional content knowledge experts in the areas they support.
SI Leaders attend robust training and professional development each term. This helps them study methods to facilitate learning during guided review sessions.	Tutors are certified through the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) and attend on-going training and professional development.

How will SI help me?

Students who consistently participate in SI sessions earn, on average, 1 letter grade higher than students who do not participate. One hour in an SI session is equal to two hours of studying alone.

SI Leaders ensure the group knows what to study and how to study.

SI also prepares you for success in future courses by teaching you the study skills you need to finish your education at the top of your game.

Supported Courses and Study Sessions

Each campus offers a variety of courses supported by Supplemental Instruction.

Open the spreadsheets below to find available study sessions at your campus. All links will open in a new window.

How do I become an SI Leader?

You may apply to be an SI Leader if you:

Completed a targeted course with a B or better,
Earned a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, and
Enjoy leading a small study group, have key leadership qualities, and can serve as an academic mentor.

Apply by completing an employment application at TCC Job Opportunities. Search using the keywords "supplemental instruction."