Perks of learning in a group for TSPSC examinations

Hyderabad: As and when they prepare for competitive exams, many students opt for group preparations. The idea is to be able to share information, compare notes and be able to create an apt environment for the preparations. Dr Vasavi Samyukta Sunki, an Educational psychologist at Apollo hospital, gives us her insight regarding the benefits and […]

Hyderabad: As and when they prepare for competitive exams, many students opt for group preparations. The idea is to be able to share information, compare notes and be able to create an apt environment for the preparations. Dr Vasavi Samyukta Sunki, an Educational psychologist at Apollo hospital, gives us her insight regarding the benefits and effective methods to plan study groups.

Benefits of Group Studies:

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Each individual has a different ability of understanding. With teachers, there usually is a barrier for some students. But with friends, there’s certain freedom and limitations are eliminated. Students who study in a group can gather various perspectives from people of various environments and experiences.

Discussions will be productive as the students brainstorm ideas and dig their thoughts based on their previous experiences. This helps in building their communication skills, critical thinking and creativity, as well as their ability to think from a variety of perspectives.

Being part of a study group allows you to observe different types of study methods. It enhances our problem solving skills by improving conceptual and understanding abilities.

Group studies also help in improving soft skills like communication skills, peer relationship, social skills and thinking skills, which will help one throughout the career. Regularly scheduled group study sessions can eliminate one’s procrastination too.

Tips for effective group studies

Maintain small groups:

Ideally, not more than five to seven people should be in the group. As they say too many chefs spoil the broth, productivity decreases with too many people talking and discussing. Same members must be participating in the groups throughout to avoid disruptions.

Avoid Interruptions:

Most of the kids easily divert from the topic they’re studying. It is natural for students to dig within the topics, so rules must be set about what is necessary to study and not. For a productive group discussion, don’t let a lot of people talk at once, instead have healthy discussions.

Need to plan:

Week-based planning should be made— how many days to meet in a week, hours to meet, what topics to discuss and syllabus to complete. Sometimes it is not feasible for a few participants to catch up. So there must be backup plans too. Adhering to the plan is important.

Take regular breaks:

There must be 10-minute breaks after every 45-60 minutes. Do not overload the brain and allow it to process the information.
However, group studies are for those students who are comfortable with such scenario. It is important for the students to know about their strengths and weaknesses and then to decide whether to participate in group studies or stick to individual preparations.

— Sruthi Kuruganti