Study groups

Study groups are an effective way to learn subject material as well as prepare for assessments. Here are a few tips for setting up an effective study group.

A study group is a great way to keep motivated and stay focused. You can:

• learn from other students
• practice asking questions or explaining concepts
• motivate and support each other.

While it can be intimidating asking strangers to join a study group, most students are eager to get to know other students in the course and work together.

Here are some tips to get started:

• Ask if anyone in your class is interested in starting a study group – your lecturer may be able to help.
• Use the message board or forum on your LMS to generate interest.

It is a good idea to spend the first meeting setting expectations for how often you will meet, how long the meetings will go and what are the expectations for the members.

• Set a time and place that is accessible for everyone.
• Make an agenda that includes what subject material you want to cover.
• Share contact information (student emails are recommended).

• Go over reading or lecture material together and quiz each other.
• Practice explaining difficult concepts or ideas to each other.
• Ask each member to present a section of each week’s reading to the group.
• Set time aside to work on assessments (note: make sure to avoid collusion. See Academic Integrity: Collusion).
• For more information on working in groups, see Assessments: Group assessment tasks.

Still have questions? Do you want to talk to an expert? Peer Learning Advisors or Academic Skills and Language Advisors are available.