How to Join a Class Discussion

Thanks to the miracle of social networking technology, it is now very easy to find and join class discussion groups. Many universities have sites that allow students to post and respond to questions online, thus allowing for an informal exchange of ideas. But many students go above and beyond, creating online forums and meeting in person to discuss classwork. Here are some tips for integrating yourself into the mix.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Research class discussion groups organized by the university you are attending. Especially in difficult math and science courses, departments will encourage students to study in sessions lead by a teaching assistant or a student tutor. This is a good way to meet people you want to study with in the future.
2. Chat up the smart kids. After you choose your concentration, you will inevitably run into the same students as you make your way through required classes. Talk with them before class and on the way out the door. Finding people to study with is much like getting a date. If you meet smart people and find you have some chemistry, suggest a study session.
3. Set up an email group or social networking site for your study group. Once you've found a group of people to join, set up a site where you can post questions, notes, tips and share progress as you work through difficult material. This is also a good way to plan for working together in person.
4. Plan what information you are going to cover during your discussion. If you are meeting weekly, then you can review the material recently covered in the course. If you meet only before exams, come up with a list of topics that you are likely to be tested on or go over old exams.
5. Come prepared to class discussion groups. You may get along great with your study mates, but organizing a session together is a waste of time unless you've done the reading and are ready to participate. Have your notes ready, along with questions about what you don't understand.
6. Take turns teaching each other the material. Assign each person to lead the discussion on a section of the coursework they are most comfortable with. That way, you take advantage of each person's strength. Assigning a temporary discussion leader is also a way to keep the group focused.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're studying hard with your group, designate 5 to 15 minutes per hour to blow off some steam. This way, you're less likely to wander off topic when you're supposed to be focusing.
• Only join a class group discussion only if you like the people involved. If you can't stand the brightest student in the class, it's unlikely you'll learn much from studying with him. Discussion groups are effective because they mix work with a little bit of gossip and fun.