| Student use of out-of-class study groups in an introductory undergraduate biology course. | |
| | |
MedLine Citation:
|
PMID: 21364102 Owner: NLM Status: MEDLINE |
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
|
Self-formed out-of-class study groups may benefit student learning; however, few researchers have quantified the relationship between study group use and achievement or described changes in study group usage patterns over a semester. We related study group use to performance on content exams, explored patterns of study group use, and qualitatively described student perceptions of study groups. A pre- and posttest were used to measure student content knowledge. Internet-based surveys were used to collect quantitative data on exam performance and qualitative data on study group usage trends and student perceptions of study groups. No relationship was found between gains in content knowledge and study group use. Students who participated in study groups did, however, believe they were beneficial. Four patterns of study group use were identified: students either always (14%) or never (55%) used study groups, tried but quit using them (22%), or utilized study groups only late in the semester (9%). Thematic analysis revealed preconceptions and in-class experiences influence student decisions to utilize study groups. We conclude that students require guidance in the successful use of study groups. Instructors can help students maximize study group success by making students aware of potential group composition problems, helping students choose group members who are compatible, and providing students materials on which to focus their study efforts. |
| | |
Authors:
|
Stephen M Rybczynski; Elisabeth E Schussler |
Publication Detail:
|
Type: Journal Article |
Journal Detail:
|
Title: CBE life sciences education Volume: 10 ISSN: 1931-7913 ISO Abbreviation: CBE Life Sci Educ Publication Date: 2011 |
Date Detail:
|
Created Date: 2011-03-02 Completed Date: 2011-06-16 Revised Date: 2011-07-26 |
Medline Journal Info:
|
Nlm Unique ID: 101269039 Medline TA: CBE Life Sci Educ Country: United States |
Other Details:
|
Languages: eng Pagination: 74-82 Citation Subset: IM |
Affiliation:
|
Department of Botany, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA. rybczysm@muohio.edu |
Export Citation:
|
APA/MLA Format Download EndNote Download BibTex |
| MeSH Terms | |
Descriptor/Qualifier:
|
Biology
/
education* Curriculum* Data Collection Educational Measurement Female Humans Male Models, Educational Peer Group* Students* Universities* |
| Comments/Corrections | |
From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine
Previous Document: Effects of collaborative group composition and inquiry instruction on reasoning gains and achievemen...
Next Document: An undergraduate course to bridge the gap between textbooks and scientific research.