The Role of the SI Leader at MSVU
As a Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader, you will facilitate weekly, out-of-class, peer support sessions in an SI subject area. The sessions are held on campus and students attend them voluntarily. Your role is to provide insight into challenging concepts, encourage dialogue amongst the SI group, and to model effective study strategies within the subject area. As an SI leader, you understand that students will be most successful when they engage in meaningful conversation about the concepts, see good examples within the subject area, and have the opportunity to practice what they’ve learned in class.
Would You Make a Good SI Leader?
If you excel in historically challenging courses like: Accounting, Economics, Chemistry, Statistics, and Psychology, are an effective public speaker, can communicate complex ideas in a relatable way, like helping people reach their full potential, and value diversity, being an SI leader is something you should consider. Previous teaching/facilitation experience is an asset; however, training is provided for all leaders in the SI program.
SI Leader Training
Before leading SI groups, you will receive formal training. The topics covered in the training include:
Organizing SI activities for your subject area based on class lectures
Facilitation – leading group discussion
Modeling Effective Study Skills
Creating a safe and inclusive learning space
Relationship building with students and professors
Develop Interpersonal Communication Skills
Practice Effective Time Management
Develop Critical Thinking Skills
Become a Skilled Problem Solver
Work Experience for Your Resume
Get Paid to Facilitate the SI Sessions
Build Leadership Skills
Gain Teaching Experience
If you are interested in becoming an SI leader, or acquiring more information about it, contact Heather Graham, Academic Advisor, in the Dean’s Office, at msvu.ca or by calling 902-457-6324. You can also drop by Heather's office in the Seton Academic Centre, Room 302.