Study groups allow students to review material they have studied on their own and compare perspectives and understanding. Students find that by explaining a difficult subject to others they are able to better grasp the material. Additionally, when studying more controversial topics students are often asked to defend their perspectives to others which is extremely educational and helps students to better formulate their ideas. Also, students are often encouraged by instructors to work together on assignments. However, you are strongly urged to discuss this with the faculty in order to be sure that the instructor approves of this arrangement.
Office hours are often the most underutilized human resource on a college campus.
Office hours are set aside by the faculty to meet with the students in their courses. They provide an opportunity to meet directly with faculty and to get greater insight into the material of the course. Office hours also provide an opportunity for you to better understand the faculty's evaluation methods. Students find that by simply attending office hours and listening to student questions they are able to determine if they are understanding the material and staying up with the rest of the class. The benefits of using office hours are so great it is hard to understand why they are not better utilized.