The University Writing Center is located in Founders Memorial Library 152.
The University Writing Center is located in Founders Memorial Library 152.
All NIU students, faculty and staff members can schedule appointments, if openings are available.
We recommend making an appointment in advance through Navigate.
Yes. We have to track every session, so we need all of the information to be provided.
Yes. Ideally, all members of any group project need to be present for the appointment. Only material written by members present will be reviewed. Once one member has made an appointment, they can share the link to that session with the other members.
You can see tutors’ availability in Navigate.
Our approach to SI is based on the Supplemental Instruction model founded at the University of Missouri, Kansas City (UMKC). You can learn more about SI from the International Center for Supplemental Instruction at UMKC.
The SI model has proven that students learn best when interacting with each other in groups and with course material; they retain more information. The SI model is based in learning theory that incorporates group work. SI research continues to highlight that students who actively participate in group-based SI sessions retain two-and-a-half times more information than students who study alone. An SI session offers a safe environment to review and process coursework with peers while having an “expert” on hand to facilitate learning. The SI model is a fun and interactive experience that helps students build or strengthen both their social and academic skills.
The SI model is embedded in collaboration, even with our faculty partners, yet we do not want to infringe on already busy schedules. Although they are strongly encouraged to communicate regularly with SI leaders, there is no requirement. The SI leaders work with the professors/instructors, but not for the professor/instructor. Some faculty partners have time in their schedules to have significant contact with their SI leader while others do not. SI leaders undergo extensive training to be able to facilitate SI sessions either with or without professor/instructor input.
Peer academic coaches are successful undergraduate students who will share NIU-specific tips, host academic success workshops and provide general academic support in a safe environment. Peer academic coaches provide ongoing and individual coaching on:
Online sessions are 60 minutes and must be scheduled at least 30 minutes before the session. Only one appointment may be scheduled each day.
Learn more about how to set up an appointment.