“4.0 CGPA.” That’s the result Nkem and Titi, two friends and students of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), hoped to see on the portal at the end of the semester. However, things took a different turn.
As the exam season approached, the duo took different approaches to studying. Nkem a diligent student, joined a study group with his coursemates, believing that discussing key concepts would reinforce his understanding. On the other hand, Titi preferred to study alone, avoiding the distractions of group discussions.
Months later, as results were released, Samuel realized he had struggled with time management during the exams, while Titi admitted she had missed out on some key insights that group discussions could have provided. Their experiences highlight an important question: Are study groups a strategic way to prepare for exams, or do they create more distractions than benefits?
Many NIJ students must confront this question, especially as the first-semester exams for the 2024/2025 session begin on March 10. Some believe study groups help them learn better. When students come together to discuss topics, they reinforce each other’s understanding and fill in knowledge gaps.
According to a study by the American Psychological Association, students who engage in group discussions retain 50% more information than those who study alone. Study groups allow students to break down complex topics, discuss difficult concepts, and gain different perspectives.
Mr. Anthony Oligbo, a lecturer at NIJ, believes study groups can be effective but only when well-structured. “Before joining a study group, students must first understand their reading patterns and how they assimilate information. Without this, they may struggle to benefit,” he advised.
While study groups promote peer learning and accountability, he cautioned that they could easily become distracting if not properly managed.
“I always recommend that students study individually first before joining a group discussion. A study group should not be the first place where students learn a topic but a platform to refine their understanding,” the lecturer explained.
He also warned that students who rely solely on study groups risk becoming academically weak since they may not develop strong research skills or independent thinking.
Reflecting on his experience, Mr. Oligbo said, “During my undergraduate years, I studied alone and used the library extensively, which helped me build discipline. However, I had a study partner in my final year, and we achieved excellent grades together.” According to him, study groups don’t need to be large; finding the right approach that works for each student matters.
The vice president of the Student Representative Council (SRC), Aminah Onanuga, believes that study habits depend on the individual. “I think study groups help you to perform better in exams; some people can’t read alone without the help of others. Study groups help you to study more, and you will grasp things easily. While to others it might be distraction some people can’t read with others so they prefer to read alone. But studying together helps you more ” she said.
She also shared her experience that she prefers studying in a group to reading alone: “I can easily remember everything I read with my friends at the study group.” She further said that studying in a group has helped her a lot, and she recommends it for people who don’t mind reading or studying with others.
Similarly, AbdulQuadri Osholake, a part-time student, finds study groups useful because they provide a support system. “Balancing work and school is tough. I work during the day, so by the time I get home, I’m too tired to study alone. My study group helps me stay updated and clear my doubts before exams and we also set goals for each session, and that pushes me to study,” he revealed.
Another advantage of study groups is exposure to different perspectives. A student might interpret a concept differently, helping others gain a broader understanding. Also, students who teach others in a study group often remember the material better.
Despite their benefits, study groups can sometimes become social gatherings rather than serious academic sessions. Without proper structure, discussions can drift off-topic, leading to wasted time and gossip or debates on irrelevant subjects.
Okeke David, an ND2 student, believes that study groups help him stay accountable. “When I study alone, I get bored easily. But in a study group, we explain topics to each other. If I don’t understand something, someone else in the group can break it down for me,” he said.
Not all students find study groups helpful. Some prefer to study alone, like Clavito Nkem, an HND 2 student. “I can’t join any study group. Because it can be a distraction, I prefer reading alone, and I’m a lone wolf,” he said.
Another issue with study groups is that some students become too dependent on others. Instead of trying to understand a topic themselves, they rely on group discussions to learn everything. This can be risky because during an exam, students are alone and must recall information without group support.
To maximize the benefits of study groups, students need to be strategic. Here are some expert recommendations on how to create an effective study group:
- Choose the Right Members – A study group should have serious students committed to learning. If members are not focused, the group will likely become a distraction.
- Set a Clear Agenda – Each study session should have specific topics to cover. Without a plan, discussions can go off-track.
- Limit the Group Size—A study group should have a maximum of five to six people. Too many members can make discussions chaotic and unproductive.
- Use a Time Limit – Sessions should be structured with breaks. Long, unstructured discussions can become tiring and ineffective.
- Study Alone First – Before attending a study group, students should review materials individually. This ensures they come prepared and can contribute meaningfully.
Meanwhile, it is still a surprise that even with examinations at the corner, the library remains empty on an average day at the institution.
A staff member at the NIJ library, Mrs. Igwe Mariana, emphasized the importance of preparation. She said, “A study group should not be the first place where students learn a topic. They should study on their own first and then use the group to refine their understanding.”
So, are study groups a strategic way to prepare for exams, or are they a distraction? The answer depends on how they are used.
Ultimately, study groups can be a powerful tool for exam preparation, but they require discipline and proper planning. They can help students understand difficult concepts, stay motivated, and improve information retention if managed well. However, if they are poorly managed, they can become a waste of time and a major distraction.
NIJ students need to find the right balance. Studying alone helps with concentration and deep understanding, while study groups provide discussion and peer learning. A combination of both might be the best approach.
Exam preparation is a personal journey; no single method works for everyone. Study groups can be helpful, but they must be used wisely. Students should assess their own learning styles and choose the best strategy for success.
As students prepare for their next exams, the key to success lies in effective time management, discipline, and a strategic study approach. Whether through group discussions or solo study sessions, the goal remains to understand, retain, and apply knowledge when it matters most.
