GROUND RULES FOR A STUDY GROUP
PRESENTED BY THE ELMHURST COLLEGE LEARNING CENTER
IN ORDER TO HAVE YOUR STUDY
GROUP FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY, YOU MAY NEED TO SET UP SOME GROUND RULES.
ALL MEMBERS NEED TO AGREE TO THE RULES. THE FOLLOWING LIST OF RULES CAN SERVE
AS A GUIDE FOR YOUR GROUP.
Suggested Ground Rules
1. Be prompt for each session.
2. Come to the study group prepared to work.
3. Develop an agenda with the goals for each meeting.
Example: Cover study questions for chapters 5 and 6.
4. Stay on task. Don't allow reviews of last night's TV
special. Don't spend lots of time discussing fashion,
sports, video games, etc.
5. Set a time and keep track of the time. A session of
60 to 90 minutes usually works best.
6. Determine a meeting place which is free from
distractions. An open area in the library may distract
library patrons as well as group members. However,
a room in the residence hall next to the loudest
speakers may prove equally distracting.
7. If you opt for a long session, be sure to take planned
breaks. Muscle-stretching not only helps the body but
also the mind!
8. Set the date, time, and goals for the next session
BEFORE the end of the current session. This
planning will help to insure an active and
productive group.