Studying Together for Certification Success

Preparing for professional certification—whether in data protection, AI governance, or privacy management—is often perceived as an individual journey. Candidates work through dense materials, tackle practice exams alone, and manage the stress of an approaching test date in isolation. However, research in adult learning and cognitive psychology consistently highlights the benefits of collaborative learning, even when assessments are completed individually.

In this article, we explore how studying in small groups (two to three participants) can significantly enhance learning outcomes, increase motivation, and improve exam readiness. While the actual test is personal, the path to getting there can—and arguably should—be shared.

Why Small Groups Work: What the Research Says

Collaborative learning, especially in small groups, is a well-supported method in educational psychology. According to Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory of learning, individuals construct knowledge more effectively in social contexts, especially through interaction with peers operating within a similar “zone of proximal development” (Vygotsky, 1978). In simple terms: people often learn best just beyond their current level of understanding, with support from others.

A meta-analysis by Springer, Stanne, and Donovan (1999) found that small-group learning in STEM fields led to higher achievement, greater retention, and more positive attitudes toward the subject. While that study focused on university students, its insights apply equally to adult learners pursuing professional qualifications. In certification preparation—where understanding frameworks, applying principles, and remembering terminology are key—peer learning offers a powerful complement to self-study.

Practical Benefits of Studying in Pairs or Trios

Small groups avoid the pitfalls of large group dynamics (e.g., diffusion of responsibility, scheduling conflicts), while still providing meaningful interaction and learning support. The advantages include:

• Deeper understanding through discussion
  Explaining a concept to someone else is one of the most effective ways to reinforce your own understanding—a phenomenon known as the “protégé effect” (Chase et al., 2009). Discussing real-world applications, hypothetical exam questions, or interpretations of complex regulations helps clarify concepts that may remain vague during solo study.
• Accountability and time management
  Regular check-ins with a study partner foster commitment to a schedule. Studies on goal-setting and accountability (Locke & Latham, 2002) show that individuals working toward shared goals are more likely to stay on track and complete tasks than those working alone.
• Improved confidence and exam readiness
  Small groups offer a psychologically safe space to ask “basic” questions, admit confusion, or test exam strategies. As confidence builds, so does performance. Practice quizzes, discussions, and shared summaries reduce test anxiety and lead to better recall under pressure.
• Broader perspectives and knowledge sharing
  Especially in domains like privacy, AI governance, or risk management, professionals come from varied backgrounds: legal, technical, managerial, or regulatory. Sharing perspectives deepens collective understanding. For example, a CIPM candidate from a legal background might benefit from a peer’s operational insight into privacy governance models.
• Adaptability and flexibility
  Unlike formal training or webinars, small study groups can set their own pace. Whether meeting weekly or just checking in occasionally by chat, even light-touch collaboration can enhance your preparation.

Examples of How to Structure Your Group Study

To make the most of studying with one or two peers, consider:

• Role rotation: Take turns summarising content, writing quick quizzes, or reviewing each other’s notes.
• Weekly focus: Choose one GDPR principle, AI Act provision, or domain of the Body of Knowledge to cover each week.
• Exam simulation: Prepare 5-10 practice questions for each other, followed by discussion on answer rationale.
• Resource exchange: Share flashcards, summaries, links, or visual aids from your own preparation.

Finding Study Partners in Professional Communities

One of the simplest ways to form a study group is to reach out within professional forums or certification prep communities. In our own Facebook study groups for CIPP/E, CIPM, and AIGP, members regularly express the need for structure, accountability, or simply moral support. Of course, you can also find your peers in the Privacy Study Group on Linkedin.

If you’re already part of one of our study groups, feel free to introduce yourself, mention your target exam date, and invite others to connect. Even a short message like:

“Hi all—I’m planning to take the CIPM exam in June and would love to form a small study group. Anyone else aiming for a summer exam date?”

…can result in a great connection.

Why We’re Supporting Group-Based Learning

At Privacy Study Group and 22Academy, we understand that adult learners have different motivations, challenges, and learning styles. That’s why we support small-group study as a flexible and effective approach to certification.

Although this post isn’t a promotional message, it’s worth noting that we’re currently encouraging group-based learning by offering special discounts to study partners who enroll together. The group deal is optional, but it reflects our belief in the added value of preparing for exams in good company.

You can find the offer details in our pinned post or reach out directly via our website if you already have a study group in mind.