Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What courses are Study Groups offered for?
A: The groups can vary by term, but in general groups are offered for Bio: 171, 172, 225, 305, 310, 311; Chem 130, 210, 215, 230, 260; Physics: 125, 126, 135, 140, 235, 240; and Math 156. To see the current list of courses for which we are offering groups click on Groups this Term.
Q: What is the role of a Study Group Leader?
A: Study group leaders are facilitators of collaborative learning; they are not teachers or tutors. Leaders are expected and trained to engage group members in discussion and help them work together to solve problems and understand course concepts. Typical activities at group meetings include review of lecture material, small group work on problems or concepts, members presenting at the board, and work with practice exam or old exam questions. Leaders are expected to create activities and review materials that promote group member interaction and discussion. A study group leader does not lecture or lead a Q&A session where he/she is giving all of the answers.
Q: What are the requirements to become a Leader?
A: Leaders must have successfully completed the course (received an "A" or high "B" in the course) at Michigan for which they wish to lead a study group. Leaders must possess effective communication skills, have the desire to facilitate small group learning (not teach or tutor), and be available to meet with a group for two hours each week and follow through on all administrative tasks (email group members, turn in timesheets, etc.). We do not hire leaders who have only received AP credit for the course or took the course at another university. Leaders are chosen from their application and the results of a group interview.
Q: What are the benefits of being a Study Group Leader?
A: There are numerous benefits of becoming a Leader, including helping other students learn and reinforcing one's own knowledge (helpful in preparation for the MCAT, DAT, GRE, etc.), great leadership development, mentoring experience, and experience guiding a team. Leaders also learn about current learning theory, facilitation skills and techniques, and can earn money for college expenses.
Q: How much time is required for the leader position?
A: All leaders are required to meet with their group for two hours each week. In addition to group meetings, leaders are responsible for preparing for their meetings (about 45 minutes each week) and attending mandatory leader training sessions (about three per term each lasting no more than two hours and held during evening hours).
Q: Are leaders trained in facilitation techniques?
A: Yes. All leaders are required to attend mandatory training sessions throughout the term. These sessions help leaders to develop key skills in facilitation, communication and group dynamics. In addition, these sessions allow leaders the opportunity to interact and work with other leaders and program staff. Training sessions are typically held two to three times per term, last approximately two hours, and are offered on weekday evenings.
Q: Is the Leader position paid?
A: Yes. Leaders are paid $9.00/hour. Paid time includes group meetings, preparation, and training.
Q: Is the leader position available to Work Study Students?
A: Yes, we hire both Work Study and non-Work Study students for leader positions.
Q: Do I have to have taken the course at U of M, or can I facilitate a study group for a course I took elsewhere or received AP credit for?
A: Yes, we require students to have taken the course here at UM. This gives leaders the "authority of recent experience" and allows them to share knowledge about the course content, exams, etc. It also increases the likelihood that the leader will be familiar with the course content, allowing them to ask better questions and provide more effective guidance to members when they have problems or questions.
Q: When are leaders hired?
A: Leaders are hired throughout the year. The best time to apply is during the winter and spring term for the following fall. The leader application allows you to list expected grades for the current term, but you should update this with your final grades once you have received them.
Q: If I am not hired as a leader can I reapply in future terms?
A: Yes. Typically, we have more leader applicants than leader positions, so students are encouraged to keep their leader application updated so that when future leader opportunities become available they can be contacted. Make sure you update your leader application.
Q: How large are Study Groups?
A: Study Groups can have a maximum of 13 members and a minimum of three members.
Q: Where do Study Groups meet?
A: Study groups meet in the SLC study alcoves, team rooms in the SLC Satellite Location, and classrooms in the Chemistry and Undergraduate Science Building.
Q: Who do I contact if I have additional questions about becoming a Study Group Leader?
A: Send an email to slcstudygroups@umich.edu and a member of the Study Group staff will respond to you as soon as possible.
Q: How do I apply to be a leader?
A: You can complete a leader application by clicking here. Please keep your application updated as you take additional science courses and make sure to change your expected grades to final grades once you receive them.
