Students have only two options when revising – they can study individually or find a study group. The former option can be monotonous, confusing, and exhausting. The latter can promote a better understanding of various topics when members handle the process correctly. Despite the importance of group study, it may not be the best option in every learning situation and here is what Quad has to say about it.

Benefits of Studying Alone

Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of group study with those of studying alone can highlight why group study is better.

Studying alone allows you to focus on the material without distractions from other people. You put all your attention on what you are learning instead of attending a group study that could turn out to be a hangout session. You can also choose where to study without worrying about inconveniencing other people. You set the environment however you like, especially if you prefer music or noise in the background. The ability to control the study schedule is another benefit of studying alone. You can work at night or during the day, according to your preference.

On the downside, you may lose motivation, procrastinate, and take longer to understand the topics. That leads to the question – what are the benefits of group learning? We provide the answers below.

What is a Group Study?

Group study is where peers with a common goal, such as good grades, come together to share ideas about various topics, compare notes, and quiz each other. There should be a minimum number of people in each group to maximize contributions and minimize socialization. 4 to 6 members are sufficient. A higher number would make the group study less manageable, resulting in some members participating and others not contributing.

How Does a Study Group Work?

Studies often take place in a less distractive environment where members can communicate freely. The discussions can be in enclosed or open areas, so long as the group does not interfere with other people in the same vicinity. Study group sessions are often limited to around two hours to maximize productivity. Members tend to lose focus if the duration is longer. At the same time, shorter study periods are ineffective because students rush through the content.

How Does Group Study Help Students?

Study Group Members Learn New Skills and Get Different Perspectives

Studying alone limits your perspective and keeps you from exploring various topics thoroughly. Groups achieve the opposite because each member has different talents and views on discussion areas. You can discover different angles based on another person’s opinion, enhancing analytical and creative thinking. The discussions also boost confidence and communication skills to help you reach your academic goals. The ability to pick and refine the best learning methods from the other members is an added advantage of study groups. You can learn study tricks that propel your academic performance.

It Promotes Faster Learning

Faster learning is a significant impact of group study. Contrary to studying alone, being in a group allows you to comprehend different materials quickly because you do not waste a lot of time puzzling over incomprehensible topics. Other group members can explain the concepts according to their insight, thus simplifying the learning process. Students can share ideas, review the learning material, and agree or disagree with each other, meaning you engage with someone who understands the material better than you and can clarify where necessary.

Additionally, you can explain various topics to other students to determine the level of your understanding. Remember, the best way to know whether you have grasped the content is by explaining it to another person fluently and effectively.

It Eliminates Procrastination

You can easily fall into a procrastination rut when studying alone. Groups eliminate that possibility by discouraging postponements and distractions. Group members usually set specific study periods, meaning you must prepare before then to participate productively. Skipping the session is not easy, unlike when you study alone.

On the same note, surrounding yourself with motivated students is a better way to progress on assignments. Some of your study buddies can be more organized and better time managers, so you can adapt some of their skills to become more adherent to your study timetable. You will no longer waste time or carry your tasks forward unnecessarily.

Improves Professional and Personal Skills

The point of group studies is to learn from each other. Your self-esteem increases, and you feel more comfortable as you do that, setting you up for success in the corporate world. You learn to accommodate ideas and arguments that differ from yours with patience. You may also hone your conflict resolution skills if some group members do not agree on a topic. The ability to work well with others as you improve problem-solving and personal skills start with study groups.

The above benefits answer the question – what are the advantages of group study, which leads to what is the best use of study group?

Join a study group if you want to gain team experience, share thoughts and ideas as you learn from your peers, gain more clarity by filling gaps you do not understand, learn new skills or study habits, and enjoy a more interactive approach to learning.

Why are Study Groups Effective?

Every study group member strives to add value by preparing adequately before the study session. That means every member studies ahead and can ask questions if they do not understand the concepts. Engaging with peers enables free interactions where members do not conform to the same ideas. They can share different perspectives, have debates, and dig deeper into the subject.

Is Group Study Effective?

The benefits of group study confirm the effectiveness of such learning approaches. You can get more value from the forum by maintaining focus, preparing well for the discussions, having objectives for every session, and participating actively. However, the effectiveness can reduce significantly if the group goes off-topic and starts socializing instead of studying or if the members keep rescheduling the discussions. You may also get more value from studying alone if you cannot keep up with the rest of the group.