SI Basics
What is the main goal of the Academic Support Hub when providing SI sessions?
To help students become independent learners by developing study skills and providing supplementary academic support.
What is the recommended amount of time SI leaders should wait after asking students a question?
About 15 seconds.
A student asks you to explain an entire lecture because they missed class. How do you respond?
SI sessions should not become re-lectures. Leaders help students become independent learners by planning activities that encourage students to work together and process materials themselves.
What weekly paperwork do SI leaders have to complete?
Planning sheet, Starfish outcomes, Post session comments, Attendance and Weekly log
What does FERPA protect?
Students private educational records and information.
Are SI leaders considered teaching assistants or authority figures?
No! They serve as model students and faciliators.
What is the purpose of redirecting questions back to students?
To encourage student-to-student interaction and collaboration, and to challenge the students think through the answer, rather than having the SI leader re-lecture the material.
A student tells you, "You're basically my TA, so you should be able to tell me what answers are right and what will be on the exam." What professional boundary is being crossed?
If an SI leader misses a KRONOS punch, who should they email and when should they report it?
tutoring@csuohio.edu or Marianne, ASAP!
What is the Academic Support Hub's overall mission?
To provide comprehensive academic support in a student-centered environment.
What is the difference between an SI session and a traditional lecture?
SI sessions focus on helping students learn course material through collaborative activities and learning strategies, rather than re-teaching the lecture.
Name a couple ways an SI leader can check whether students actually understand the material.
Ask students to summarize a concept, give a real-life example, rephrase a question, or solve a similar problem.
A student asks you for your personal phone number so they can text you whenever they have questions about the course. What should you do?
Direct them to professional communication channels, such as CSU email or Microsoft Teams, rather than sharing your personal phone number.
How many hours per week should SI leaders dedicate to preparing for SI sessions, going to lectures, actual sessions, etc?
3 hours of prep time, 3 hours of lectures, 3 hours of sessions, a few extra for marketing, bi-weekly meetings, etc (10-12 hours)
At least 5 minutes.
What does it mean to be a "model student" as an SI leader?
Demonstrating positive academic behaviors, responsibility, and effective learning habits.
What are the two types of waiting time described in the handbook?
Waiting after asking a question and waiting after a student responds.
A student tells you something personal about their mental health or family situation. They ask you not to tell anyone. They continue to bring personal topics into your SI sessions. What should you do?
Listen respectfully, avoid promising absolute confidentiality, and consult your GA about appropriate next steps if the situation raises concern. Have a conversation with them about your role as an SI leader, and how you can direct them to the right resources.
What class related responsibility should SI leaders complete every week?
Attend all of the lectures, take notes, and model good student behavior.
Name a few professional skills SI leaders can develop through their position.
Communication, leadership, or curriculum planning skills.
You notice students are relying on you to provide every answer. What should you change about your approach?
Ask guiding questions and encourage students to use their notes, work together, and explain their reasoning.
What should an SI leader do if their planned activity is not helping students understand the material?
Adapt the session and try a different approach.
A student becomes upset when you cannot respond to their messages outside of your working hours. They say you are not being a good SI leader. How should you respond?
Professionally communicate your availability and reinforce that you have responsibilities and boundaries outside of work.
By when should Attendance and Post Session Comments be completed?
Within 24 hours after the session.
According to the SI Handbook, what should an SI leader do before bringing an issue directly to the Academic Support Hub Director?
Consult with their GA first.