Preparing to Take Online Exams

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Both instructors and students have had to adjust to teaching and learning differently because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As with everything else, exam season is changing at VIU. Technically, most exams this fall will be some type of take-home exam. VIU has listed all timed exams on the exam schedule. You might however be given more time to complete the test. Your instructors will provide all the details.

 

Along with the timed exams listed on the exam schedule we expect many other non-timed, take home exams to be given out during class and due back the week after. The instructors will provide all the details including the deadlines for submitting exams to them. This means that you may need to take more than one exam on the same day. Time management skills are essential.

 

You will find out what types of tests you might encounter this year. How you can prepare. Also, you'll find some general tips that will help you prepare for success in exam season.

 

There are many types of online tests

 

Here are some examples of the different tests your instructors may use this semester to assess your learning and some preparation strategies.

 

Multiple-choice exams

 

An instructor might decide to conduct online tests as they would in class. This will allow for collaboration (peers talking with peers and sharing their best answer for peer review). They recognize that this type collaboration is a very effective learning strategy. Some students will learn while taking the test, and they will also benefit from everyone's preparation.

 

Strategie for student prep

 

Make friends with the other students, study together and plan to take your test together. Your instructor will assume you have your books open. This may lead to a time limit for the test. This means that you won't have the time to search for all the answers. So prepare well by memorizing pertinent vocabulary and facts. You also need to know how to quickly access information if you aren't sure what you learned. Microsoft OneNote allows you to quickly create tags for key words to help you find relevant information in your notes. You can also follow the tips for exam preparation on this Learning Matters website.

 

Multiple-choice exam with multiple versions

 

An instructor may decide to take online tests as they would normally. However, they will create a bank of questions using VIULearn. This is a work-intensive process. The students get their own sub-sets of questions and collaboration is reduced. While it is still possible for students and teachers to discuss and answer questions in the same room, or virtually from home, this would mean that they will have answered all questions on both the test they were assigned and thus completed twice as much work.

 

Strategie for student prep

 

Make a commitment to each other and pick at least one study friend. If you're studying with someone else and learning from them, you learn more and have a deeper understanding of the material. You can also socialize more when you work with someone to study. Loneliness in virtual learning can decrease if there is at least one friend. Trent University offers some tips on how to study for open-book online exams.

 

Short-answer test

 

Instructors may set exams in which answers can't be found online. Short-answer tests for critical thinking or problem-solving are a great way to do this. Short-answer tests are used to ensure that students practice critical thinking.

 

Strategie for student prep

 

Learn the terminology, facts, and concepts to be better equipped to apply them in cases and short answers. Short-answer testing may also be used by instructors. This means that they likely taught the course using case studies. You should practice applying concepts so you can review the examples and cases given to you. Actively participate in exercises, examples, and cases in class. They are meant to help you pass the test. To help you understand the concepts you have learned, you might consider joining a study group. These are some Education Corner tips to help you prepare and pass short answer tests.

 

General tips to help you prepare for the exam

 

These strategies will allow you to succeed in your take-home exams, regardless of the type.

 

Time management

 

To ensure that you don't submit all your exams at the same time, create a schedule. To make sure you are able to block the time for your exams, set up your own due dates and then try to adhere to them. Your stress will be reduced by being in control of your own schedule and following the guidelines of your instructors. You can create positive pressure by agreeing to a test date with a friend and holding them both accountable for sticking to the task. If you are studying for an exam or working through a block of time, it is important to be free from distractions. Turn off your phone's notifications or completely delete them. You can find more tips on the Learning Matters Manage Time and Concentration page.

 

Self-care

 

When the clock is ticking, it's possible to decide that we don't need as many activities that increase our energy, alertness, or positive mood. This could mean that we have less time for activities that provide us with joy and belonging, as well as nutrition and sleep. When you see yourself as more than a human doer with lots to do, but as someone who is happy, healthy, well-fed and socially connected, you will be more motivated to take care of yourself throughout the exam period. You'll bring your best to every day you sit down to complete your take home exam.

 

Strategies to study

 

You should start by reading the course syllabus. After defining learning outcomes, instructors create quizzes to measure them. This is covered on the Learning Matters' Study Skills and Techniques section.

 

It is often forgotten that instructors are a crucial learning resource. Your instructor can help you understand if you're unsure. This link explains how to connect with instructors.

 

It is a great way to keep on track by joining study groups or finding a study buddy. You can share information and quiz one another. Peer-Supported Learning is available in most programs. PSL is a peer-supported, free study program that offers regularly supported sessions with a trained peer.

 

Manage anxiety

 

Finally, practice calmness and learn how to manage your anxiety. Learn to be mindful of your breathing and silence your mind daily. This will allow you to practice calm breathing. If you can control your mind to concentrate on the task at hand and silence it, you will be able to remain present and calm. You can find resources and links in the episode notes for Successful U's episode 3: Handling stress.

 

Preparation is the key to success in test taking. Checking in with your instructors to discuss expectations about content and test style, as well collaboration on tests or assignments is a good idea. The positive experience of preparing for an exam and then executing it well can be achieved by utilizing a variety study strategies, including time management, stress management, and using a variety different study strategies. You have many options for support.

 

Related article from CollegeBasics: https://www.collegebasics.com/blog/how-to-get-the-best-online-exam-help/

Related Resources:  
Online Exams: 5 Benefits
Online Exams: Five Advantages
Online Exams 5 Advantages
Preparing for Online Exams

 

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