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How to Use Social Learning Groups for Different Purposes
Social Learning Groups are groups of people who meet regularly to learn from each other and share their experiences. They can be used for various purposes, such as online learning, personal development, and self-study. In this article, we will explain the types of Social Learning Groups and how you can start one.
Online Learning Groups
Online Learning Groups are Social Learning Groups that follow an online course together. They can help you stay motivated, engaged, and accountable in your online learning journey. They can also provide you with peer support, feedback, and social interaction.
An example of an Online Learning Group is a group that supports online learners who take courses on Coursera, edX, or other platforms. You can find a practical example of such a group on the Example page.
The meeting format for Online Learning Groups is described on the About page. It consists of a presentation by one of the group members, a break time for social engagement, and a conclusion to share what members have learned with two self-study sessions in between during which members can help each other learn.
Online Learning Groups are an ideal way to add back peer support, social engagement, and structure that are lost when transitioning from in-person to online learning.
Personal Development Groups
Personal Development Groups are Social Learning Groups that use a self-improvement book as a basis to improve the lives of participants. They can help you achieve your goals, overcome your challenges, and transform your habits. They can also provide you with inspiration, encouragement, and accountability.
The meeting format for Personal Development Groups is similar to Online Learning Groups, but with some adaptations. For instance, you may want to dedicate more time to discussing how the book or resource can help you in your personal situation. Members may also want to share progress and challenges with the group and ask for their advice or support.
Personal Development Groups are part of a larger initiative called Active Community, which is a community-based social group that uses motivation and morality to help individuals and communities achieve optimal outcomes in health, prosperity, and education. You can learn more about Active Community Groups on the Active Community website.
Self-Study Groups
Self-Study Groups are Social Learning Groups that use a textbook or a curriculum to learn a new subject or skill. They can help you master a topic that interests you, prepare for an exam or a certification, or advance your career. Videos, exercises, and other materials can be used to support learning goals.
The meeting format for Self-Study Groups is similar to Online Learning Groups, but with some adaptations. For example, you may want to include peer review of exercises and essays as part of your meetings. Peer review is a process where you exchange your work with another group member and give each other constructive feedback. Group members may need some training on how to do peer review effectively.
How to Start a Social Learning Group
Find people who share your interest and goal. You can use online platforms such as Meetup and Facebook to create or join groups related to your topic. You can also use offline methods such as posting on local billboards or newspapers.
Coordinate a time for your group to meet. You can use online tools such as Doodle or When2meet to coordinate with your group members and find the best time for everyone.
Find a location for your meetings. You may be able to find a meeting place in a community center, library, or church.
Prepare for your meetings. Members of Personal Development Groups will need to bring the book to study from. Members of Self-Study Groups will need to bring the textbook. Members of Online Learning Groups will need to bring a laptop computer. For Online Learning Groups, make sure that the venue where you meet has access to Wi-Fi or bring your own portable Wi-Fi hotspot or share Wi-Fi from a phone.
Follow the meeting format and enjoy your learning experience. You can use the meeting format described on the About page or adapt it according to your needs and preferences. Remember to be respectful, supportive, and open-minded with your group members and have fun while learning together.
If you are interested in starting a Social Learning Group, please contact us at slg@ngiinsights.com.