Supplemental Instruction

If you need assistance with a class that is not supported by Supplemental Instruction or one of the Drop-in Tutoring disciplines, please take advantage of the following resources:

• Visiting Study Buddy office hours
• Your instructor's office hours (you can also email your instructor to set up a meeting)
• Peer study groups: research shows that students learn more when studying together
• Academic Consultation at CAS: set up a virtual meeting with one of our consultants to discuss how to study more effectively, manage your time and tasks more efficiently, reduce test-anxiety, etc.

Over the past 5 years, SI has been proven to be an effective academic support for Alfred University students. The graph below shows the percentage of students in SI supported courses who received a final grade of a D, an F, or withdrew from the course (students who received a W as a result of a Leave of Absence were not included in the data set). The students were broken into two categories, those who utilized SI support (attending at least one session throughout the semester) and those who did not attend any SI sessions throughout the semester. As demonstrated, each semester the students who utilized the support have lower D/F/W rates than their peers who did not utilize SI support.  
*The Spring 2020 semester was omitted from the data set due to the COVID-19 pandemic shifting courses to an online model and opting to implement pass/fail grading for courses.  

What are Alfred University students saying about SI? 

"My SI Leader really gave me a feeling of confidence to help me solidify certain ideas in chemistry."

"SI has helped me a lot! I really struggled with AP chem in high school because of not having any extra help. My SI Leader has helped me, because if I need any help, even just a small question, she is always there to answer it. I would not have a midterm grade of an A- without her."

"My SI Leader has helped me so much with understanding different topics covered in class. She is always patient and willing to answer any questions. I have been able to do as well as I have because of her!"

“My SI Leader is the only reason I am passing this course!” 

"SI has been helpful because my chemistry grade went from a C to an A. I got a 77 on the first exam and once I started going to SI sessions, I got a 91 on the second exam!"

"SI has helped me keep my grades up during my sports season, and my SI Leader explains topics in more depth and answers any questions I have."

"SI is a very helpful tool for students. It allows them to have more help outside of the classroom. Having a peer instructor is great for students who still feel a little intimidated to talk to professors. Having someone who understands the material, is closer in age, and understands the other struggles of college life can make a student open up and grow their confidence in their studies."