Structured Learning Assistance FAQs

What are "enhanced" core courses?

Enhanced sections of core mathematics and English courses are designed for those students who enter APSU with ACT/SAT scores, which formerly would have placed them in developmental courses that carried no university-level credit and, therefore, did not apply toward a degree. The enhanced core courses meet 3 hours each week. In addition, students enrolled in enhanced courses must participate in Structured Learning Assistance (SLA) two hours each week. This approach is approved under the TBR A-100 guidelines that address requirements for students who have low ACT/SAT or COMPASS scores in mathematics, English, and reading. By enrolling in enhanced sections of core English and mathematics courses, students will accomplish two goals: (1) complete the core requirement in mathematics and English; and, (2) satisfy the TBR requirement to address mathematics and/or writing deficiencies.

What is Structured Learning Assistance (SLA)?

Structured Learning Assistance (SLA) provides additional instruction related to an enhanced course and engages students in activities to address mathematics. reading, and writing deficiencies that impair their chances to successfully complete core mathematics, English, and other courses. SLA leaders, who conduct the SLA workshops, attend each meeting of the core classes that are paired with the SLA sections for which they provide leadership, design the workshops, and work regularly with the course instructor.

Who must enroll in SLA supported Courses?

Students with the following ACT, SAT, or COMPASS scores in mathematics, reading, and English must enroll in enhanced sections of mathematics, history, and English core courses in order to comply with the Tennessee Board of Regents A-100 Guideline.

Do students have to pay extra for SLA?

Students pay the same tuition for enhanced courses as they would for non-enhanced courses.  They also pay a small fee to cover the cost of the workshops.

What benefits do Enhanced Mathematics, History, and English courses supported by SLA offer?  

• Reduces the time spent in earning a degree: Students remove deficiencies and complete core course requirements at the same time by participating in 3 hours of lecture and 2 hours of SLA each week for one semester. Thus, students address the same deficiencies while enrolled in a core course that previously required at least 3-6 hours of non-university level course work before students could enroll in core mathematics and English courses.
• Reduces the tuition cost to students: Students no longer pay tuition for courses that do not apply toward graduation. They pay only the tuition for the core class.
• Increases opportunities for success: SLA supports course instruction with individualized instruction and group activities led by an SLA leader, which maximizes the opportunities for students to understand all course concepts and to achieve course objectives.

What happens in SLA workshops?  

• Instruction on learning styles and study skills that apply to mathematics and/or writing.
• Computer-based individualized instruction to address mathematics deficiencies.
• Additional writing activities accompanied by peer review.
• Small group activities for students to explore and discuss important concepts covered in classes.
• Instruction on test taking strategies.
• Test reviews.

• The SLA Leader assists students as they work to improve their study skills and understanding of course concepts. Workshop activities may include:
• The SLA Leader has demonstrated academic success in mathematics, reading, and/or English and is recommended by departmental faculty for this role. The  leader also receives additional training on how to conduct workshops. The SLA Leader attends each class meeting of the supported course and meets with the professor on a regular basis to discuss workshop content.