Kurt Lewin, a German-American social psychologist, is famous for scientifically foundering the study groups movement. He focused on how group dynamics apply to real-world social issues. The findings relate to modern-day life, especially in group studies in schools. While studying alone is possible, it’s evident that a group study helps students learn new skills and commit to studying.
Teaching students is one part of learning at all education levels. Group work and joint discussions, though, help concepts sink in. Still, the group must discuss relevant issues to be effective. If it doesn’t, the study group does nothing to improve the study process. Curious about how learners benefit from study groups? Read on for more on why study groups are a must-have in institutions.
The Advantages of Studying in Groups
After paying school fees in Singapore, you want your child to get the best education. Expecting the teachers to do all the work is asking for too much, making group study sessions unavoidable. Studying in groups impacts students in the following ways:
1. Support
When students come together, they work towards a common goal. As such, they encourage each other and stay motivated to fulfil their goals, making learning a positive and fulfilling experience.
2. Dedication
Group studies require everyone involved to participate, encouraging students to stay up-to-date on assignments. Additionally, everyone in the group prepares well for quizzes instead of cramming the content. Procrastination has become a thing of the past, making students more successful.
3. Improved Communication
Study groups improve communication skills. Students must think creatively and communicate effectively with others to understand and refine study materials. Above that, group study boosts confidence and prepares students for the real work world.
4. Better Learning
“Two heads are better than one, not because either is infallible, but because they are unlikely to go wrong in the same direction.” – C.S. Lewis, British writer. Working in groups helps learners learn and work faster. When students work alone, they spend more time-solving difficulties.
In the group, students can:
- Explain new concepts to peers
- Exchange ideas
- Review study material
- Disagree or agree about different answers
- Seek clarification
Students have different talents and abilities, and combining these skills makes learning a fun and successful process. Besides, students work on more concepts since more people can review more material simultaneously.
5. Learning New Skills
Students learn practical skills like communication, analytics, and cognitive skills through the Cambridge IGCSE programme. Combining this programme with group studies equips students with new abilities like note-taking and organisation. These skills are important for keeping study material updated and arranged.
6. Comparing Notes
During class, every student takes notes separately. While the teacher relays similar information, the notes differ. Fortunately, students compare notes, clarify essential concepts, and fill gaps in their content.
7. Teaching Others
Since students have different abilities, forming groups with weak and high-performing students allows them to teach each other. Explaining information to peers helps students grasp information better and master concepts.
8. Fun Interactions
Study sessions should be lively, and working in groups amplifies the experience. Spending hours studying alone is draining and monotonous. On the other hand, group studies create a conducive environment to have fun and learn, a more fulfilling experience than studying alone.
9. Varied Perspectives
Studying alone gives you one perspective, which is not the best way to learn new concepts. Learners form their opinions and conclusions by listening to other students give their points of view, the perfect opportunity to build critical thinking skills.
10. Comfortable Learning Environment
Students are reluctant to ask questions in class but feel comfortable in the group. With time, students build their confidence and find it easier to speak in class. On top of that, discussions improve listening and speaking skills, which improve the learning experience.
How to Form a Successful Study Group
Schools encourage students to work together indiscriminately. However, learners must be vigilant to form the right teams for discussions. The steps to follow include:
Step 1 – Finding three to five interested students
Step 2 – Meeting everyone first
Step 3 – Identifying goals as a group
Step 4 – Figuring out the logistics (meeting time, place, frequency, and communication methods)
Step 5 – Ensuring everyone is on board
Step 6 – Choosing the group leader
What to Do During Study Sessions
Every study group needs a leader to lead discussions and perform administrative duties. It becomes easier for the group to function with a good leader since members clash less during study sessions. While discussing, leaders must ensure everyone is heard and respected. Every member must have ample time to ask relevant questions or raise concerns, without which students might feel left out, defeating the purpose of studying in groups.
Before meeting for the discussion, all team members must familiarise themselves with the study material. Doing so prevents time wastage since everyone is on the same page. In addition, study group leaders must show sensitivity to anyone having difficulties.
Leaders must check with everyone to see if anyone needs additional help. If so, the group takes extra time to help the individual so the team can move forward to discuss other concepts.
How to Stay Focussed During Group Study Sessions
Since students form peer groups, there are bound to be instances where people want to socialise. However, these cases must be minimal since discussions and tasks must contribute to the study group’s primary goals.
Initially, students must review the group’s goals, schedules, and progress, keeping the group on track by reminding everyone of the group’s and individuals’ purposes. In addition, group leaders must encourage members to point out when meetings go off track. A study group session report helps members reflect on sessions and map the way forward.
When Studying Alone Works
Group study is excellent, but it shouldn’t be the only form of studying in schools. Here are a few cases that call for studying alone:
- If the group is too talkative
- If study sessions keep getting postponed
- If a student has a different level of understanding
Studying in groups is effective since students understand the study material better. At the same time, learners become more confident interacting with the teacher and more students. That said, students must respect study sessions to increase their efficiency. It’s tempting to get carried away, but non-educational discussions take away from the true purpose of study sessions; to learn and grasp better.
