Hints for Study Groups

Groups are optional but recommended

United we stand; divided we fall

A chain is only as strong as each of its links

The two main purposes of study groups are for members to:

provide each other with the support, encouragement, and assistance need to complete assignments and make good academic progress. This includes letting absent group members know what went on in class and interacting informally between classes discussing assignments and helping each other with workbook activities and preparing for tests.
hold each other accountable for striving to make academic progress.

Some things that your study group can do include:

· academic support tasks such as checking to see what help each member needs to complete the workbook activities, sharing the responsibilities of completing the activities, giving each other advice on how to take tests, write notes, and survive in school. Members can prepare each other to take tests and share ideas in areas of expertise. Above all, members monitor each others academic progress and make sure all members are achieving.

personal support tasks such as calling each other to make sure you will all arrive in class in a timely fashion.

All members of each group are expected to:

contribute actively to the class discussion,
work to maintain effective working relationships with other participants,
complete all assignments, and
assist group members in completing their assignments.

If problems within a group arise, e.g., if one member does not contribute to the group or participate in group activities, or if one or two members let others in the group shoulder the burden of the work and expect to benefit, then, the group may chose to expell that individual or individuals.

Chose your group carefully.

Be sure to:

· exchange phone numbers and information about schedules so you can meet outside of class.
· sit together in class if possible.
· review class notes and reading outlines.
· expect to learn, to enjoy, and to discover.
· get silent group members involved.
· work at giving good feedback to each other.
· take time to get to know your study group as humans.

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