In addition to facilitating the SI sessions, SI leaders model appropriate learning behavior and study strategies as they attend class, take notes, and read assigned texts and outside readings. There are several key elements of SI that distinguish it from tutoring and other learning support strategies. Here at the University of Dayton, SI is a way for students to develop college-level study techniques and study strategies while enrolled in regular academic courses. SI-supported courses in General Education count toward fulfilling the University requirement. The key to the program is that the SI leaders are students themselves.
All SI leaders take part in intensive training before the beginning of the academic term.
We discussed the lectures, notes, quizzes and research projects. We were all comfortable enough to express any feelings or views on the topics discussed and that's a good way of learning. My SI leader really cared whether or not we understood the material. SI also made tests easier to prepare for and take. Another thing I liked was the way it would clear up some of the foggy parts of the lecture.