Q&A
Q: What are Social Learning Groups?
A: Social Learning Groups (SLGs) are groups of learners who meet regularly to study the same online course, book, or textbook. They use the power of social learning to enhance their motivation, comprehension, and retention of the material. They are based on the idea that learning is more effective and enjoyable when done socially.
Q: How can I find a Social Learning Group?
A: If you have a specific topic or skill that you want to learn, you can look for an existing Social Learning Group that covers it in your area. You can use online platforms like Meetup and Facebook groups to find or ask about local Social Learning Groups. You can also check out local bulletin boards, community centers, or newspapers for announcements of Social Learning Groups.
Q: How can I start a Social Learning Group?
A: If you can't find a Social Learning Group that suits your needs, you can start your own by finding a location to hold meetings, such as a room in a community center, library, or church. You can invite people who share your interest in learning through online platforms, flyers, or word-of-mouth. You can decide together on the format, frequency, and duration of your meetings. For more information about starting a Social Learning Group, see the Start page of this website.
Q: Are Social Learning Groups in-person or virtual?
A: Social Learning Groups are ideally in-person meetings, as they provide more opportunities for social interaction, motivation, and feedback. Social time and one on one interaction are not as practical in group virtual meetings. The opportunity to start friendships that continue outside the group is also more limited with virtual meetings.
Q: Do all members of a Social Learning Group have to study at the same pace?
A: No, members of a Social Learning Group are encouraged to continue studying at their own pace outside of the group meetings. Group meetings are meant to provide structure, guidance, and support for your learning journey. You don't have to be at the same level as everyone else. You can learn from those who are ahead of you and help those who are behind you.
Q: Are groups permanent?
A: Yes, new members can join at any time and members who have completed learning the material can leave. As long as there are enough members to form a group, the group can continue.
Q: Can the learning material in a group be changed?
A: Only with the agreement of the whole group. Changing the learning material would essentially be like closing one group and starting another. If some members are ready to move on to other material and others are not, it would be better to keep the existing group and start a new one.
Q: How big should a group be?
A: Groups should aim for between 12 and 24 members to facilitate social interaction and group cohesion. Consider that not all members may be able to attend every meeting. Larger groups can split into two groups if necessary.
Q: What learning material can be used by an SLG?
A: Typically group members would be learning the same online course. An SLG can also be started around self-study of a book or textbook.
Q: Where should SLG meetings be held?
Meetings can be held in a room in a library, church, or community center. For groups following an online course, the group organizer must find a location with available Wi-Fi or provide a portable hotspot or shared connection from a phone.
Q: Does it cost anything to join an SLG?
Some groups can be free if they have no expenses. Other groups may ask members for a contribution to cover the cost of renting a meeting room.
Q: What should group members bring to the meetings?
If the group is following an online course, members should bring a laptop. For groups based on a book or textbook, the book should be brought to the meetings. Members can also bring a notebook and other study material if needed.
Q: Can an SLG have a practical goal outside of learning?
A: In addition to learning, if the learning material is a self-help or self-improvement book, members can support and encourage each other to apply the principles learned. Time can be added to meetings to discuss how the material applies and to support each other in achieving personal goals. This type of group is called a Personal Development Group. You can find out more about Personal Development Groups on the Start page of this website.
Q: How is a Social Learning Group organized?
A: A social learning group is typically founded by an individual who takes on the responsibility of organizing and running the group. Once the founder has completed their learning objectives, they can select another leader from among the group members to take over. To ensure the group’s longevity, it may be necessary to establish a board of committee members to oversee its operations. Having a mix of recent and longer-term group members on the board can help ensure continuity.
Q: How can related SLGs be grouped together?
A: A group of Social Learning Groups can be used for various purposes, such as studying for a qualification or grouping together books and online courses related to the same topic or profession.
To group related SLGs together, a single committee can be formed to manage multiple groups that are related to the same subject. This approach can help ensure continuity of groups. Additionally, having board members drawn from multiple groups can help improve communication and collaboration between the groups.
If you have more questions about Social Learning Groups, please contact us at slg@ngiinsights.com.