Posted by Slavyana Popova on July 08, 19101 at 06:08:55:
To me both studying alone and studying with others have their strong points and weaknesses. Which way I would choose on a particular occasion would depend on the kind of material I want to study and my purpose in studying it.
On the one hand , studying alone is often my best way to concentrate. When I am left alone with the task at hand, especially if it is one I can easily cope with, I am much more efficient than in the case when I would have to discuss with others what I already understand well (unless, of course, that would help them to understand it better). Besides, when I study on my own, I can work on my own specific weaknesses and do the exercises that I need to do to improve my skills.
On the other hand, studying in groups is very useful when the matter to be studied does not merely require cramming, but invites discussion. If that is the case, it often helps me to broaden my own view on the question by hearing other opinions. Moreover, if something is to be remembered, it is easier for me to memorize it when it is spoken out. Studying in company has the further advantage of combining the pleasure of social interaction and the benefit from active learning.
In my opinion, both ways of studying are very good if one knows when to choose one or the other.