Study Group

[CityEMT212]

Hi All,

I've held one study group so far, and it was more like a lecture group instead of a uniform study session. I, and the others, are all in the class together and some of the new content is a bit tricky to immediately comprehend so I'd like to hold another group, but don't want it to be a repeat of our last session. I'm thinking of suggesting that each one of us simply just pick 1-3 chapters to present... that way I know not only would they be prepared, but they can also "lecture" as well. Any advice?

 

[joshrunkle35]

Your plan is a good one. Set a specific time for the whole group study (3-4 hours total). Divide topics (rather than chapters) amongst yourselves in advance and then divide the time equally. Have everyone prepare their own plan of study. Some people could teach, others could quiz the group, etc.

 

[CityEMT212]

Your plan is a good one. Set a specific time for the whole group study (3-4 hours total). Divide topics (rather than chapters) amongst yourselves in advance and then divide the time equally. Have everyone prepare their own plan of study. Some people could teach, others could quiz the group, etc.

Josh,

Thanks - I like that idea - I didn't really think to quiz the group. I'll definitely advise that in our next session. Thanks for your advice.

 

[VentMonkey]

The quote below is one of a handful of reasons why I despise study groups and do not use (nor am I am fan of) them.

I've held one study group so far, and it was more like a lecture group instead of a uniform study session.

A paramedic instructor I once knew moons ago swore up and down we had to study in groups in order to pass his program.

What I found to be most productive to me was not to study in groups. However, if you’re set on setting up and studying in groups I would consider the following:

1. Make sure you pick a small, like-minded group and have an agenda before the sessions commence.

2. Try pairing people in the group (e.g., maybe it’s just two in your group, or a maximum of four people in your group).

3. Keep the sessions to 1-2 subjects/ topics at a time, and to a minimum timeframe.

4. Study somewhere where distractions can be kept to a minimum.

5. Take breaks if needed. But, keep the sidetracking, tangents, and gripe sessions to a minimum.

6. Everyone learns differently, so perhaps the best way to ensure your group actually learns is to learn the study habits of each individual in your group beforehand.

 

[Carlos Danger]

Study groups work well for some, for others they are just a nuisance. Assuming everyone in your group wants to be there and actually contributes, it's a great idea.

Having each person present a chapter is a great a idea. Remember, probably the best way to really learn something well, is to teach it. The person presenting the chapter will almost certainly get more out of it than those he is presenting to.