Online Study Groups

How and Why You Should Study With Others

We learn through interaction with others, so you should consider the benefits of studying with others. You will learn from listening to them, reading what they write, and observing them. Some instructors require group collaboration in online courses.

Studying with a group provides:

• Shared knowledge
• Solidified knowledge
• Increased motivation
• Increased teamwork ability

Strategies for study group success:

• Choose a leader for each meeting. Rotating the leadership helps all members take ownership of the group. Be flexible. If a leader has to miss a meeting for any reason, choose another leader for that meeting.
• Set meeting goals. At the start of each study group, compile a list of questions you want to address.
• Have an organized agenda to compare perceptions of the main points and possible essay questions.
• Adjust to different personalities. Respect and communicate with members who you would not necessarily choose as friends. The art of getting along will serve you well in the workplace.
• Share the workload. The most important factor is a willingness to work, not a particular level of knowledge.
• Determine what the group wants to accomplish over the course of the semester.
• Set regular meeting times (in person or online). Try every week, every two weeks, or whatever the group can manage.
• Create study materials for one another. Give each group member the task of finding a piece of information to compile, photocopy, and review for the other group members.
• Help each other learn. One of the best ways to solidify your knowledge of something is to teach it to someone else.
• Compare notes with your group members and fill in any information you don’t have.
• Don’t take someone else’s word on a point you are not sure about—look it up later.

Study Groups Online:

• Comply with the above strategies.
• Communication can be accomplished asynchronously, as well as synchronously. Choose to meet face to face, by phone, or chat room (instant messaging) at the same time.
• You can also stay in touch by communicating online via e-mail, course mail, or group discussion areas.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Others may have the same question.
• Communication is key to a successful experience in a fully online course.
• Interaction with others will improve your online experience.