Being a postgraduate student can be both exciting and quite challenging. Classes full of new learnings, assignment deadlines, and finding time for yourself are all part of the great transformative experience that will propel you forward in your career.
Group work is also a part of this incredible experience. It not only allows you to share different ideas or perspectives on a variety of topics but also to form a group of friends with whom you’ll share many experiences (and many hours of work). Our organizational and communication skills come into play in this scenario as they are key to successfully meeting all deadlines.
Consider some effective study group strategies to help you thrive during your semester:
- Know your Team: Understanding the unique contributions of each team member during meetings and assignment submissions is vital. This recognition facilitates the equitable distribution of responsibilities, ensuring that every member can support the team effectively.
- Open Communication: Creating a space for clear and open communication is vital. Practice active listening and encourage feedback among all members. This will create an atmosphere of trust, and keep the team proactive in addressing challenges.
- Be Proactive: Preparation is the cornerstone of productive group discussions. Encourage each member to conduct preliminary research and generate ideas before meetings. This proactive approach enriches discussions and enhances the depth of work produced.
- Tools and Resources to Enhance your Deliveries: Identify and leverage the diverse skill sets within your group to determine which tools and resources best complement your collaborative efforts. Platforms such as OneDrive, PowerPoint, Canva, and Prezi offer valuable aids in content creation and presentation.
- Time Management: Collaboratively establish optimal meeting times that accommodate everyone’s schedules and allow for focused progress on assignments. Developing a structured agenda promotes efficiency and enables the swift completion of tasks within designated timeframes.
- Take a Breather: Don’t forget to take breaks! Plan fun activities outside of study sessions to unwind and bond as a group. Whether it’s grabbing dinner, hitting up a local bar, or simply catching a movie together, these moments strengthen friendships and recharge your energy.
By implementing these strategies, you can elevate the efficacy of your study group endeavors, enhance the quality of your work, and foster meaningful connections with your peers. Embrace the collaborative spirit of postgraduate studies and embark on this journey equipped with the tools for collective success.
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About the Author
Arianne Ballena from Peru is embarking on her first international study journey. Holding a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and a diploma in supply chain management, she has accumulated over 6 years of experience in strategic and financial planning, client engagement, and agile frameworks within the insurance and banking sectors. Arianne looks forward to the opportunity of being a Student Ambassador and sharing the SFU culture with future students.