The Integrated Academic Support Program (IAS) enhances three key introductory-level courses with weekly subject-specific tutorials, study group sessions, and optional individual tutoring. Regular participation in IAS tutorials or study groups has been proven to increase student GPAs and completion rates in these so-called "gateway" courses.
The goal of IAS is to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to advance and major in areas of study requiring these courses. All first-year students are required to complete the first-year writing requirement which can be fulfilled upon successful completion of Writing 2, Writing 3 and a first-year seminar. Students who enroll in Chemistry 2 or Math 1 and 2 are typically considering majors in the sciences, mathematics, engineering, or economics. It is not recommended to take one of these courses simply to fulfill a distributive requirement.
IAS courses include:
Chemistry 2: Quantitative Reasoning in Chemistry (offered in the Fall term)
Math 1 and 2: Calculus with Algebra and Trigonometry (a two course sequence offered in the Fall and Winter terms)
Writing 2 and 3: Composition and Research (a two course sequence offered in the Fall and Winter terms)
Course descriptions can be found at: http://www.dartmouth.edu/~reg/courses/desc/
Writing 2-3 tutorials are offered by graduate students specially trained as Teaching Assistants (TAs). You meet weekly with your TA in an hour long one-on-one writing tutorial. Your TA may also offer writing skills workshops, small group meetings, office hours, and library orientations as the course requires.
CHEM 2 and MATH 1 and 2 study groups are facilitated by upper-class students who have earned an A or A- in these courses or higher level courses. Study groups of five to eight students meet on a weekly basis. Wherever possible, groups are offered in residence hall study lounges.
Together, your study group will discuss major concepts, build study skills specific to the class, and prepare for quizzes and exams. Leaders clarify course material, share successful learning strategies, and promote small group learning. They do not re-teach the course content, so you should expect to be an active contributor to the study group. You may also request extra time outside of group with your leader for one-on-one tutoring.
The IAS Program director, professors, TAs, and study group leaders meet regularly throughout each term to discuss course content, student progress and to identify students who would benefit from additional tutoring or study skill development. You are encouraged to meet with your professors during weekly office hours.
Only students invited to enroll in IAS courses are eligible to participate in IAS tutorials and study groups. Due to their popularity, these courses often attract more students than there are spaces to offer. Students who do not receive an invitation, or who only wish to take an IAS course to fulfill a distributive requirement, should contact the professor who teaches the course.
Math 1-2 vs. Math 3: Which Course is Best For You?
Writing 2-3 vs. Writing 5: Which Course is Best For You?
