Exam Revision: Getting the best out of study groups/discussions

Research has shown how study groups improve students' performances substantially. Studying with others is equally in line with the age-old wisdom that two heads are better than one. As much as it is vital to create time for personal studies, study groups can help students share their ideas, learn from each other and tackle questions together.

After all, "no man is an island entire of itself," as the English poet John Doone notes, "every man (is) a piece of the continent, a part of the main." Seeing things from other people's perspective can be both edifying and humbling. 

However, when study groups are not properly organised, students don't manage to learn anything worthwhile from them. It is therefore important to plan study groups carefully in order to get the most from them. Here are some tips that can help:
 

1) Smaller groups are better

Don’t make the group too big; a group of three, four or five students is the ideal size. This will enable everyone to participate actively as it is difficult to hide in a small group. It also makes the group easier to plan and moderate.

2) Appoint a moderator/secretary

To show the seriousness of the group, a moderator or secretary may be appointed. This role can be rotated among group members. Someone should be responsible for disseminating information about the study venue, time and other necessary information. Someone also has to lead the discussions, moderating comments and contributions.

3) Come prepared for group discussion

Everyone should have read the materials to be discussed in the group. This allows quality contributions and participation by all members of the group. It should also be an opportunity to raise questions and observations from the study material. This likewise prevents one person from dominating the discussions.

4) It's okay to disagree

Studying in a group doesn't mean all group members must agree on a point. One of the major aims of group study and discussions is for variety and varied perspectives. However, all perspectives should be grounded on facts and evidence. If further clarification is needed on a disputed topic, consult the professor in charge of the course.

5) Summarise contributions at the end

Each individual at the end of the study/discussion session should be able to summarise the major issues on the discussed topic. The secretary or moderator of the group can also come up with a succinct summary of major contributions and lessons. It can be emailed to group members or uploaded on the group's social media handles.

 

Exams are around the corner, so studying with others and sharing exam tips and concerns will be very helpful. Get organised today and get ready for the challenge - with the help of classmates and study buddies!

 

Written by LSE Social Media Ambassador Victor Agboga