Over 22% of college students use “Study With Me” videos for accountability and companionship during self-study. However, nearly 78% of students prefer alternative study methods, finding screens distracting. Nowadays, a new learning trend is gaining popularity: “Study With Me.” This involves watching strangers study online. Gen Z students are turning to this quiet form of motivation.
What is the “Study With Me” Trend?
“Study With Me” videos feature YouTubers livestreaming or recording their study sessions. These videos aim to help others focus, not to entertain. They often run for hours, sometimes with ambient sounds. The concept began in South Korea and Japan. Students there livestreamed their study sessions for accountability. It later grew into structured videos. These videos include soft music, countdown timers, and silent focus periods.
Today, “Study With Me” content is available on YouTube, TikTok, and Discord servers. They often create a cozy library or minimalist workspace feel.
Virtual Study Spaces
Beyond streaming platforms, students can also use live virtual study spaces like StudyStream. This platform offers “focus rooms.” Here, learners worldwide study together via video calls.
- Motivation and Accountability: It helps students stay motivated by working with others.
- Camera Options: Users can choose to have their cameras on or off.
- Quiet Environment: Rooms remain quiet and distraction-free.
StudyStream also provides a supportive online community. Members share tips and encouragement there. This helps them stay focused and connected. Many creators of this trend want to build communities. They offer support to fellow students. Their main goal is to create a global network of virtual study companions. These companions support each other in shared digital spaces.
Why “Study With Me” Works for Some
These videos help students who need structure or companionship. They offer routine and motivation.
- Many creators use the Pomodoro method. This involves timed focus sessions with breaks. It helps students stay productive for hours.
- The calm rhythm of these videos helps limit distractions. This works for those who do not want complete silence.
A YouTube creator, “Study with Merve,” stated in one video: “I hope this study video helps you avoid using social media while you study. Hopefully, this will get you more motivated to study. I hope that helps you know that I’m there studying with you.” This shows her aim to create a virtual “study buddy” with quiet companionship.
When Aesthetics Take Over
Some Gen Z viewers focus more on the atmosphere than productivity. They like the aesthetic aspect. This includes clean desks, ambient lighting, rain sounds, and neat stationery. It creates a calm and visually pleasing environment.
This can be emotionally soothing. However, it may not always lead to deep focus. Still, it offers a peaceful setting.
Not for Everyone
“Study With Me” is not a solution for all students. Some find watching others study a form of procrastination. Others find it too passive or too curated. The aesthetic appeal can also create pressure to have a “perfect” study space. This distracts from individual study needs.
Student Opinions
A small Google Forms survey of college students showed interesting results:
- 77.8% of respondents do not use “Study With Me” videos. They prefer silence or find screens distracting.
- 22.2% of respondents do use these videos. They find them helpful for accountability and companionship during long self-study sessions. This is especially true for competitive exams or online classes.
Also Read: Gen Z Work-Life Balance
Voices from Real Students
Students share their personal experiences:
- Khushi, University of Delhi: She uses “Study With Me” videos for focus. “Seeing someone else stay on track helps me stay disciplined, too,” she stated.
- Avya, an undergraduate student in New Delhi: Long study sessions feel easier when watching others study online. “It feels like I’m not studying alone,” she shared.
The “Study With Me” trend may not suit every learner. However, it offers a subtle kind of support for some. It reflects Gen Z’s changing relationship with learning and productivity. As education becomes more hybrid, these virtual study rooms could become a common way for students to build focus and community remotely.
