Join A Study Group To Enhance Your Distance Learning!
April 7, 2010 by Natasha Bright
Filed under Online Colleges
Those who are participating in a distance learning education are discovering some advantages not present with on-campus learning. Schedules are flexible, tuition is often lower, and study can be done from anywhere a computer can access the Internet. Since this type of study is inherently solitary, there is one problem that can arise from it. Group study is often a requirement, however, it’s not like students can just meet after class for coffee.
In a study group, the members not only reinforce class information, but provide counterpoints for discussion. Each person has their own weakness and their own strength and in a group setting the weakness can be bolstered and the strength encouraged. The dynamics of group communication during study provide a working model for what will happen in the work world during conferences and meetings.
Unique to distance learning is that the student can be from all over the world. A Marine in Baghdad taking continuing education can be in the same class as a mom from Seattle and a college freshman in Miami. There will be different time schedules and real life commitments for each individual. Getting together can pose a problem. If you need more information about accredited distance learning degree, look on the internet.
Fortunately, distance colleges are aware of this, and have come up with their own answer. The solution is to set up online study groups. Many have set up areas within their systems where students taking particular classes can set up these groups. Google has its own service in the form of Google Groups, which has study areas if the college doesn’t facilitate this first. There are some helpful hints for a group success if one plans to participate in one of these.
(1) Introduce yourself at the start, making sure to provide a bit of information as to when you can participate in the study group. Your classmates don’t need to know your height and weight, but they do need to know your time schedule and when you’re available. During this time get to know each other, you may even find you are all local for this particular class. Meeting in person might be possible and advantageous to the entire group.
(2) Be polite. Talking online is a wonderful way to communicate, but it often falls flat in conveying emotion and certainly does when conveying tone of voice. Respectful speech toward your group mates will go a long way in making this a good experience for all. There will be times when someone asks a question or says they don’t understand that may have you rolling your eyes. This group is to expand the knowledge of all and inevitably your turn will come to not understand something. Answer the question or explain the matter in a way you would like someone to for you. This approach works here and in the even more important real work world. There is an abundance of information about distance learning universities on the web.
(3) You don’t have to be afraid to ask questions. Questions are the life blood of a good discussion group and learning to ask without worrying about looking silly and answer the questions of others is a good life skill. Not asking a question automatically closes a door on the possibility of a great discussion. Help your group be successful by asking and answering questions.
There are other advantages to the group format during your distance learning education experience. Group study during your college courses online will help prepare you for work and the meetings and conferences so much a part of it.