A study group can be very helpful when you are preparing for a test or trying to learn a difficult subject. Learning with a group allows you to fill in the gaps of your learning by leveraging the knowledge of your peers. Not everyone does well when trying to study in a group but you may find it beneficial to have friends you can call upon when you need extra help.
Start studying in a group by finding people in your class who have a similar study habits. Get to know your classmates and invite people who appear to have similar study habits to yours into your study group. There is nothing more irritating than joining a study group which is not as interested in studying as you are. Group members should be willing to share the work, if you feel that you are putting more into the group than other people look for another group to join. If you find yourself resenting your group members, you will not learn anything.
When studying with your group, you should discuss the information and concepts covered in your class. Group studying is a vocal and interactive process designed to help you learn through discussion and repetition. If you find your study group sitting in silence, your not taking advantage of the group learning process. Your study group can debate the issues brought up in class or simply review the notes and topics discussed. If you are an auditory learner, you may find that group study sessions are more beneficial for you than individual study and review.
Avoid falling into the social trap with your study group. Do not spend your entire study session talking about topics outside of class. While you can be friends with your study partners, you need to create a clear schedule that allows the study group to concentrate on the topic you are studying during your sessions. Save your social conversations for after your group studying is completed.
Tags: How to Study, study groups