The IAS Program targets critical introductory-level courses and enhances them with weekly subject-specific tutorials and study group sessions. Regular participation in IAS tutorials and 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 students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance and major in these areas of study if they so desire.
IAS courses include: CHEM 2, MATH 1 and 2, and WRIT 2-3. Course descriptions can be found at: http://www.dartmouth.edu/~reg/courses/desc/
IAS provides students who want to learn course material in-depth and earn the best possible grades with individual tutorials in WRIT 2 and 3 and small study group sessions in CHEM 2 and MATH 1 and 2.
Writing 2-3 tutorials are offered by graduate students specially trained as Teaching Assistants (TAs). TAs attend all class meetings with their students, hold hour long one-on-one writing tutorials with each student each week, and meet regularly with the Writing 2-3 professors to discuss how best to advance student learning. TAs 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. In a relaxed setting, groups of the same five to eight students from the same class meet weekly throughout the term with their study group leader. Wherever possible, groups are offered in residence hall study lounges in order to give students the opportunity to learn, make friends, and even have fun.
Together, study groups discuss major concepts, build study skills specific to the class, and prepare for quizzes and exams. Leaders clarify course material, share their own successful learning strategies, and promote small group learning so that students can use their own knowledge and problem-solving strategies to teach each other. Students may also request extra time outside of group with their leader for one-on-one tutoring.
The IAS Program director, professors, TAs, and study group leaders meet regularly throughout each term to discuss course progress and outreach to students about ways to strengthen their skill development. Students can meet with professors during weekly "office hours" or for private appointments. They can also consult with the IAS Program Director Carl Thum, who also heads the Academic Skills Center , for academic guidance and help in adjusting to college life.
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 Academic Skills Center, or the professor who teaches the course, with any questions.
