Joining an accountability group is one effective strategy for getting writing done, making progress on projects, getting started on readings and assignments, or just getting some work done. By meeting at set times and giving everyone a chance to report their progress and goals, accountability groups leverage social commitment, provide structure, and help participants stay focused on tasks that are important but not urgent or that might otherwise seem isolating and unstructured.
The Academic Resource Center is not the only place for graduate students to find accountability. The Fellowship and Writing Center offers Writing Oasis sessions, and students can create their own accountability groups.
There is also more than one way to run a successful accountability group. Participants might decide to meet daily or weekly or something in between. They might decide to meet as briefly as one hour or for as long as four hours. But all accountability groups share one thing in common: they are welcoming and non-competitive.
Graduate Students
ARC Academic Coaches facilitate several accountability groups each semester, which meet via Zoom for 60 minutes. The groups are structured with 45 minutes of focused, quiet work bounded by brief check-ins where students report their progress and goals.
Productivity to PhD
Productivity to PhD groups are held during the winter session and during other breaks to support students’ intentions to make significant progress on their PhD work during breaks from classes and teaching. Dates are announced a few weeks before the semester break.
GSAS Writing Oasis
Hosted by the Fellowships & Writing Center (FWC), Writing Oasis Accountability Groups are facilitated by FWC staff or autonomous.
The groups are offered in a variety of formats based on interest, schedules, and time zones.
Upcoming ARC Accountability Groups for Graduate Students
- Time Management for Reading-Heavy Courses Do you ever feel like you're struggling to get all your reading done? In this workshop, participants will learn how to effectively manage their reading load by using prioritization, time estimates, time limits, and intentional scheduling. Space will be provided for answering individual questions and […]
- Reading and Note-Taking for Literature and Theory If you’re taking classes in the humanities or social sciences or pursuing a degree in these fields, you’re likely managing a heavy reading load. In this workshop you will learn strategies for reading the different kinds of assigned texts: literature (novels, poetry, short […]
Harvard University welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. Anyone with a disability who would like to request accommodations or who has questions about physical access may email the Academic Resource Center in advance of the program or visit.