Study and Discussion Groups
I would first like to make the distinction between Study Groups and Discussion Groups, although you may find a certain amount of overlap. Study Groups meet to study together a particular topic, they may all sit together but study independently only engaging in conversation if someone needs clarification on a particular concept or topic. Discussion/study groups are generally a more vocal affair. Members may take turns to present their understanding of the current topic, allowing individuals to learn from each other, and to take the time to reach understanding of difficult concepts and topics through discussion. The second type of group may be of advantage to Aural and Kinesthetic learners, Visual learners may be facilitated by making use of white boards to note in a mind-map framework a general brainstorm on the current topic.
In my experience brainstorming together as a group is a good way to establish the common knowledge base and to equip the group to prepare material for the next session. Each member may be asked to prepare a short piece on a different aspect of the topic and present it to the group. This maximises the learning potential of the group as a whole.
In my experience brainstorming together as a group is a good way to establish the common knowledge base and to equip the group to prepare material for the next session. Each member may be asked to prepare a short piece on a different aspect of the topic and present it to the group. This maximises the learning potential of the group as a whole.