Study groups can be very advantageous to learning. That is, if they're done correctly. This isn't to say there are strict, rigid rules for forming study groups, but you'll want to take some guidelines into consideration. There are specific benefits for adult students in studying with a group, so keep this in mind when forming a study plan.
Mix It Up
Find classmates who have a similar study philosophy to your own. Students who are serious and dedicated to doing well will make the best group contributors. This is obvious. However, we know everyone has their own style, so think about asking people to join who are also quite different from you. For example, inviting a quiet classmate to join your more extroverted group may bring a sense of introspection to sessions. Don't just ask your friends; a study group that consists of varied members is most effective and will tend to veer off task less often.
Create Order
Set some ground rules for your group. Not only must everyone participate, but you may want to have each person come to each study session prepared to teach a certain section of material. Teaching others is a great way for everyone to learn new material and to retain the knowledge. Saying and hearing the words out loud is a too often neglected study tool.
Get Comfortable
Find a place to study that is comfortable for everyone and allows you to spread out. Maybe you can invite your group home to your house. Group study time can be great for socializing and getting to know others. Younger classmates may appreciate being able to spend some time in a home-like atmosphere, rather than in the dorm or off-campus apartment. And getting together with other non-traditional students may allow opportunities for child-care sharing and commiseration.
Most importantly, with study groups, don't allow yourselves to get distracted. While it can be great to connect with others, you don't want to defeat the purpose of getting together, which is to improve your study efforts. Working as a group can lead to increased information retention and effectiveness, if done correctly.
Do you have a group study success story? What's worked for you? What hasn't?
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