Studying in groups can be great. They’re fun and allow you to get information on a topic you don’t grasp just yet. However, they can be ineffective if they’re not approached correctly. So I’ve compiled a list of things to do and not to do when you join a study group.
DO: Pick the right people.
You want to make sure that the people in your study group are from a common class, serious about studying and reliable. Don’t pick people with awful work ethic just because they’re your friends. You’ll end up not getting any work done.
DON’T: Make your study group too large.
Honestly, three to six members (including you) is enough. More members mean having more ideas and perspectives, but a group too large will be overwhelming and more likely to cause distractions.
In order to stay organized, create a set schedule for your group meetings. There’s nothing worse than having meetings all over the place or someone not being able to make it because you guys didn’t plan accordingly.
DON’T: Diverge from study topics.
Your study group is for studying, nothing else. Sure, you could maybe an off-topic conversation or two, but try not to do it too often. Everyone’s time is super valuable so make sure that you use it effectively to accomplish things.
It’s hard to get a session going if you or the members don’t know exactly what you’re going to do. So talk amongst each other beforehand to agree on what needs to be covered so you know what you’re going to do.
DON’T: Rely on your study group
Study groups are fun and all, but you also need to study individually. Some topics require your complete undivided attention, so it’d be better for you to do it alone. Also, some sessions might get canceled so if your group is the only way you study, you might not get any work done. You’re also not going to be any help to your group if you don’t do readings and work o your own.
DO: Know each other personal strengths and weaknesses.
Find out what skills and abilities you are your members can offer to each other. Is someone super good at editing essays? Does someone else take amazing notes? Or maybe someone grasps a topic super well and can teach it to others? Figure out all this stuff to help each other reach your goals.
DON’T: Come in unprepared
Everyone in the group should arrive with three goals they want to accomplish as well as a list of things they understand and areas of confusion. You’ll be more productive this way.
DO: Teach others material you understand.
When you teach someone else material and they get it, you’re solidifying your understanding of a topic.
DON’T: Pick poor locations.
The location should be convenient for everyone (not difficult to commute), comfortable and have all the amenities you may need (wifi, printer, computers, whiteboards)