The University Of Texas At Austin: What Starts Here Changes The World
The School of Nursing
 
 

You at SON

Study Groups

Why. Much studying, especially reviewing for tests, can be done effectively in study groups. Research has shown that students who help each other think through problems tend to learn the material more efficiently and make better grades. Study groups can be especially useful in courses with a great deal of technical information and/or critical thinking, like nursing courses.

Who. A study group is best when it consists of three to five students with the same basic goal for the course. The goal for one group might be for all group members to make an A, while the goal for another group might be for everyone to pass. It is important to think of the motivation and determination of the people you choose to be in your study group.

When. The group should meet regularly, maybe once a week, certainly before exams. Plan a time when all group members can attend in order for the meetings to be effective.

What. Group members should have specific tasks to complete before the group meets. For instance, each group member might have to read a certain amount of the assigned material and write a brief synopsis of it. Each person’s synopsis would then be handed out at the meeting, thus saving everyone time. The study group needs to have a specific agenda for each meeting. This will guard against not knowing what to do and wasting time. Be specific. Know what you want to accomplish.

During a test review session, use your study group to anticipate the test questions. By thinking about it, reviewing your notes, and brainstorming, you can figure out the important points the professor will likely include in the test. Tests are a lot easier if you know the questions ahead of time, right? Write down all the possible questions your group thinks of, then divide the questions among the group, and have each person write the answers for a few of the questions. Get back together and share your answers several days before the test. This is not cheating. This is critical thinking and problem solving.

Where. Try to find a quiet location that is convenient for all members of the group with enough room, blackboards, or whatever you may need. You may use one of the study rooms in the School of Nursing Learning Center, 5.102 A, B, or C.

How. To help everyone feel comfortable working as a group, try talking about what your goals for the course are and the group’s purpose. The group must work as a team and all members of the team must participate equally. A well-run study group is a great asset to students in science and medical programs. The study group will have a major impact on your success in these courses.

back to top