Effect of administrative placement and fidelity of implementation of the model on effectiveness of Supplemental Instruction programs

Abstract

This research investigated variables that may influence the effectiveness of the Supplemental Instruction learning assistance and enrichment program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and other U.S. postsecondary institutions. Study number one analyzed variables related to academic performance of University of Missouri-Kansas City students (mean final course grades, the rate of course withdrawal, and rate of persistence). Study number two investigated variables at 735 U.S. postsecondary institutions related to the academic performance of students and satisfaction level with the campus Supplemental Instruction program. Independent variables included: administrative placement of the SI program unit (academic affairs, student affairs, or other), age of the SI program, fidelity of the program to SI program activity constructs (SI Supervisor involvement, SI Leader involvement, SI Leader training, institutional involvement), and four dependent variables (mean final course grades, mean percent of D and F final course grades and course withdrawals, mean percentage of students who participate in the program, and satisfaction level with the program). Besides the quantitative studies, an extensive review of the literature regarding the history of developmental education and learning assistance programs in the United States produced six discernable historical phases. Supplemental Instruction was placed within this social context in American history. The appendix includes an extensive annotated bibliography of 450 publications and other media types published by authors worldwide related to Supplemental Instruction. Study number one found a positive correlation between higher academic achievement and persistence rates with the independent variables of SI attendance and measures of precollegiate academic achievement. The entire known population of 735 Supplemental Instruction programs within the United States was selected for study number two. There were statistically significant positive correlations with three of the four program activity constructs (SI Supervisor Involvement, SI Leader Involvement, and SI Leader training) and the effectiveness of the program regarding improved student outcomes and higher satisfaction ratings by the campus administrators who supervised the program. There were no statistically significant differences between the different program administrative placement locations and the dependent variables. Implications from this research include identification of key activities within the program that should be observed to maximize program effectiveness for the institution and participating students.