I never much liked study groups, but I have come to learn that, when done properly, they are a powerful tool in a student’s arsenal.
Here are some tips on how to run study groups effectively
Tip 1: Order
This is where the main problem is. All members of a study group should have roles. The most important role is that of the leader. All study groups should have a leader. It may sound uncomfortable, especially if you form a study group with friends, but it is necessary.
Having a leader helps coordinate the group. It is the leader’s job to make sure the group always remains on target. Don’t nominate the most popular person for this position. No nominate the most detail-oriented person.
Tip 2: 3-5 people
The more the merrier
Quality over quantity
Small groups allow fewer distractions. Small groups also allow for individual weaknesses to be identified. It is harder to disappear in a small group. It is also harder to not carry your own weight in a small study group. You will get found out.
If absolutely necessary, you can have 6 or more members in your study group, but I believe 3-5 is the sweet spot.
Tip 3: Set goals
One of the key responsibilities of the leader is to lead the group to decide on goals. The overall goal of every study group should be to make sure everyone passes examinations. As a student, this should be your first goal.
Other goals include
- Number of meetings per week
- Percentage of topics covered per session
- Projects achieved (if this is within the scope of the group)
All goals set should be SMART (You have probably come across this mnemonic numerous times. That’s because it works).
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-based.
Define all your study group goals with these variables
Tip 4: Solve questions
This I believe is the best way to study as a group. Questions allow for focus and tend to bring out individual weaknesses. Instead of discussing topics, each group member is tasked with reading ahead, and then the entire group meets and solves questions together.
Take turns reading and answering the questions to allow for maximum engagement.
If any challenging topics come up while solving the questions, these can be discussed and resolved before moving to another question.
If the subject you are studying does not have study questions freely available, task each group member to create questions and bring them to the study group meeting.
I will discuss in a different post how to create questions while studying.
Tip 5: Be accountable
This might be the hardest thing for most people. If you are joining a study group, you are making a commitment (don’t get cold feet). You are making a commitment to yourself and others. Keep this in mind the entire time. Have integrity. Be consistent, and when others are not holding their weight, point it out. It is good for the overall health of the group to hold each other accountable. However, when you point out such issues, point it out in love and kindness.
Tip 6: Be kind
We all have weaknesses. Some weaknesses are more glaring than others. The purpose of study groups is to find strength in unity and lift each other up. Once you form a group, you will see the weaknesses of others up close. Be kind. Lift them up. Do not be overly critical. Do not insult. Do not say names.
Tip 7: Evaluate
At the end of meetings, take a short time to evaluate how things went. What went well? What could be improved? Be open to suggestions.
Summary:
Organizing and running an effective study group can be challenging, but if you get it right, it will be well worth the effort.
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