Incentivizing Students to Encourage Consistent Study Group Attendance Is Associated with Improved Course Performance

Human Anatomy and Physiology I is a rigorous course where developing strong study habits poses a challenge that many students have difficulty overcoming. In an attempt to help students better prepare for exams and improve their overall performance, we introduced incentives for participating in study groups. Here we examine the possible impact these study groups had on exam and course grades of students who participated in study groups versus those who did not, as well as the students' overall attitudes on incorporating these groups into their study habits. Students reported that participation in study groups was a positive experience that helped keep them on track with their material as well as aiding them in preparing for exams. Our goal was to help students develop good study habits that will set them on a path to success in their subsequent coursework. In addition, we anticipated that students would recognize the value of working in groups and strengthen their learning networks and sense of learning community.