You might think that “studying independently” would simply mean studying on your own. But studying independently actually also involves being able to collaborate with your peers and, importantly, often working effectively as a team. The ability to work as a group has become increasingly important across LSE courses, and the skills you develop by collaborating on group projects will prove invaluable throughout your career.
Here are some ideas for working in groups effectively:
Get to know the different members of your group. Get a sense of what each member feel are there strengths and their weaknesses. This will enable you to organise an effective division of labour.
Establish some group guidelines. Everyone has a different way of thinking and working, and the group will only work effectively if everyone feels equally valued and respected.
Start by developing a shared sense of what the task or project requires you to do and try mapping it out on paper. Discuss how you will collectively tackle the problem and try to reach an agreement on what the best approach might be.
Now is the time to work out a division of labour. Divide the task up into manageable parts. Make sure that all group members are responsible and accountable for their section of the task.
Once started with the project, don’t stop communicating! It’s vital to have regular meetings and keep each other up to date on progress.
Work to realistic, achievable deadlines. Set dates for the completion of specific tasks or components. Think about having a timeline for the project overall.
Lastly, get help if needed. Your teachers will be able to help guide you if you have problems with the task aims or your group dynamic.
Further resources
Setting up and making the most of study groups| – advice from LSE students in the Department of Social Psychology