Since the COVID-19 outbreak, many instructors and students adjusted their mode of learning and examinations from physical attendance to online sessions. Most learning institutions have adopted online learning as their official knowledge dissipation and testing platform. However, for some students, online learning and tests have proven to be a bewildering experience. They have no idea what to expect and lack the skills to sit for the texts and perform their desired grades. Many are afraid of these exams as they are not well prepared for them. What they do not know is that the steps involved in undertaking an online exam are much related to the in-class tests.
Nevertheless, the online environment is different because one may need extra preparedness and awareness. Some institutions are using integrity tools such as the test monitoring software, which must be downloaded before the exam. In addition, the student must learn to use such software and practice to avoid delays and time wastage during the test. This article has described the various ways to prepare for online exams and excel in them.
Tips on how to prepare for your online exam
1. You should be sure to answer to read and understand all the test guidelines
Some of the exams can be done anytime, while others give you a choice choose which time to do them. For this reason, you should know which exam to handle fast and how much time you need to handle the test. On the other hand, you should take exams within a given time and location according to the instructor’s guidelines and specifications.
2. You should understand the format of the test
You are responsible for knowing the questions you expect for your test. Is it a short answer, multiple-choice, answer only or fill-in essay, or the combination of the above? With this, you know how to flame your answers.
3. Study
Whether the exam is an open book or not, you need to have the information at your fingertips. The exam is scheduled at a set time; the faster you can remember the content or which page to get it from, the easier the exam will be for you. What theories, modules, processes, equations, and trends do you need to know? You may prepare some quick reference notes with the essential information such as diagrams and charts for easy reference access. Prepare your practice tests with sample questions from your homework assignments to handle the main exam within the given time frame. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of using digital and paper references to choose the best reference style for you. For instance, is it the paper organization’s flexibility or the digital search speed that you need?
4. Identify the most favorable zone to take the test
To avoid distractions and time wastage during the trial, ensure that your spot has a reliable internet connection and turn off all the other sources of distraction such as TV, music, and phone calls. Also, make sure you have mobilized a quiet environment with no disturbances from family members or roommates. You can even decide to hire a tutor from a recognized platform such as sweetstudy or studypool to guide you through.
5. Create a system
After creating a comfortable space to sit for the exam, develop a strategy to help you find the necessary faster. Here are some guidelines to help you set up an online test system.
- Put your chats and notes in colors.
- Mark the needed pages for your open book test.
- Use the highlighter tools and comments in the case of digital tools.
- Use physical dividers, and sticky notes for quick reference jumps for the paper option.
6. Plan the time you need to sit for the exam
Check your clock and set the alarm to remind you when to start the exam and the time you need to pursue each question in the test. While you may have done all the necessary preparations for the test, honoring the exam time and period is essential for you to perform well. Create positive pressure with your peers to commit a deadline for the examination and make each other accountable for finishing the task in time. Else, you will fail for not answering some of the questions within the set time, yet you had the information with you.
7. Prepare for an emergency just in case it happens
Some of the emergency tips to consider under this category include 1). Saving a copy of the questions and answers in a word document before you transfer it to the primary test. 2). Use at least two browsers for the test. Some of the questions may require you to seek information online; hence, using another device or an alternative web browser is essential to avoid any chances to close the page. 3). In case of a technical problem, notify your instructor and let him know the exact problem affecting your test with evidence as screen shorts. You can reach out to the university tech support also for help.
8. Confirm and verify your answers before submission
Ensure that you have answered all the questions as required. After ascertaining the answers, confirm that you have submitted the test before you close the browser. You may receive a message to acknowledge your submission or get a redirection to a different page, depending on the platform.
9. Finally, relax and take a breath
Every exam calls for a sober mind. Once you log in, take a few minutes to relax and focus on the test.
In conclusion, online exams can be a success or frustration, depending on your preparedness. Ensure that you consult your peers or instructors where you are unsure. Understand the process of doing the exam and type of the test you expect. With good preparation, most people prefer online exams over physical tests as they easier to perform and can be done within your comfort. In summary, to succeed in an online exam, focus on four major things: acquire as much knowledge as possible, create an organized system, plan your structure and apply the necessary academic integrity.
