Writing Online Exams? Here’s How to Get it Right

Now that everyone realizes that the coronavirus will be here for a while and the return to normalcy will take some time. Educational institutions and students are embracing the concept of digital education with gusto because it is the one thing that has helped ensure continuity even amid the challenging circumstances that have wreaked havoc across the globe. But being able to study isn’t the only important part of education. What we mean to say is that assessments are an equally important aspect of the process since it allows teachers and educators to evaluate students’ progress, understanding, and more.

And even though they are better known as online exams in the context of digital education – it doesn’t take away from their importance. But given that they are still a rather modern concept, many people, including institutions, teachers, and students, have found themselves struggling to wrap their heads around the phenomenon. But we will focus on students for now since they are the ones that exams are meant for. Now, as we have moved beyond the pen and paper model and rely on increasingly advanced technologies, students must take the time to acquaint themselves with the details to be completely prepared and consequently fare well in their exams. So, if you too are bracing for online reviews, here are some tips to help you navigate this challenge successfully.

1. Do a test run: It is a big no-no to attempt an exam without first doing a test run of the technology. And don’t do it JUST before the exam; ideally, you should ensure all the technology and systems you will need to attempt the exam are working as intended at least a day in advance. And if you want to be doubly sure, you can do another test run a few hours before the exam. Better to spend a few minutes making sure everything is in order rather than being stuck later, no?
2. Understand the test format: The format used for tests can vary in accordance to a variety of factors: Starting from subjects to the educational institute, everything has a say in the form used. To avoid being caught by surprise during the test, refer to old tests or samples, if available. If not, ask your teacher or institute to help you out with a brief overview of the trial, including types and number of sections.
3. Don’t navigate away from the test: Most modern online test systems are equipped to identify when students steer away from the test page or attempt to cheat by other means. So, don’t attempt to do any of that for you risk your progress and stand being disbarred from the test.

Online test system is the need of the hour for students and educational institutions all over the world; this much is abundantly clear. Now, the only thing left to do is work out how to become adept at using them to the best of their potential.