One of the most effective ways for preparing for class discussions and exams is by using a study group. Study groups provide a number of benefits to the learning process. For starters studying with others in a small group is helpful to everyone because you think out load, share ideas and learn from one another. Below we've listed some of the major benefits of study groups, guidelines for putting together and some ideas for how to maximize the value of each study group session.
Benefits of a Study Group
Benefits of a Study Group
- Improve you notes
Study group members can help the individuals improve their class notes but sharing notes.
- Sharing talents
Everyone has different strengths and weakness. By participating in a study group you are able to benefit from the talents of other group members.
- Support system
Study groups can provide by emotional and physical support. If you're feeling down a study group member can help motivate you. If you're going to miss class one day a study group member can take notes for you when you gone and fill you in on the details when you get back.
- Cover more material
Study groups can help you cover more material. Having three people working on a difficult math problem is more effective than having just one person work on it. Also, when you have a lot of ground to cover you can make assignments and then report back to the group what you learned. Study groups can be very effience.
- Its makes learning fun!
Sitting in a library cubicle studying day in and day out can get very boring and tedious. Working with a study group can make learning fun. Consequently, you apt to spend more time learning and studying.
- How many
The best size for a study group is four to six people. In smaller groups its too easy to get off track and you don't have the man power to get things done. Larger groups are harder to manage and you end up having individuals that get left out or a few free lopers.
- Who
The best study groups are composed of individuals that share the same interest in doing well in class and on tests. You'll want to include individuals who pay attention in class, take good notes, ask questions and generally participate in class discussion.
- Where
Study group sessions should be held in a location free from distractions and that has room to comfortably study and interact.
- How long
Study group session should be not longer than two to three hours. If study sessions are longer members tend to loose interest and focus. Conversely, if you don't spend a least an hour in each study session you typically can cover all course material adequately and the study group becomes ineffective.
- When
Try to meet at the same time and place each week. Creating a set routine will help each member to plan ahead and come prepare to each session.
- Create clear objectives and goals
Set clear objectives and goals for each study session. This will ensure that study sessions stay focused and that time is well spent.
- Be prepared
Its had to contribute to a study session if you come unprepared. It also difficult to benefit from other members if they come unprepared. Make sure that you and your group members always finish your assigned reading, that you each review your class notes, and list topics you want to go over in the next study session.
- Ensure participation
Each member should take turns teaching the other members in the group. Teaching reinforces what you learn and also ensure you're understanding of the subject matter is correct and comprehensive.
- Stay focused
Each group study session should have a leader. Its the leaders responsibility to make sure that the group stays focused on the correct topic(s). Its also useful to schedule breaks every half hour or so so that team members don't get worn out.
No comments:
Post a Comment