Online classes have become popular over time due to some of the benefits they offer, such as flexible class schedules, better time management, access to a wide range of courses, and the ability to study off-campus, among others.
With online classes come online exams.
Despite the advantages, it can be challenging for new students who aren’t sure of their strategies to ensure optimal performance.
If you are an e-learner or the Covid-19 pandemic has necessitated you to sit your exams online, here are some tips to help you ace all your exams.
Plan your study time and space
Your study environment affects your general performance in class. Take time and figure out an environment where you will be most productive, and you will be able to focus your energy on the class sessions better.
When planning your time, pick a schedule that works for you such that you don’t end up missing classes. You can draw out a program that captures your day in a way that you know when you have lessons and when you are free.
If you find yourself swamped with so many assignments that you are being forced to skip classes to finish them, then it’s about time to consider getting homework help. Check out Homeworkdoer.org to see how such services could help.
Attend classes
Missing class may seem appealing on some days, especially when feeling tired and unmotivated. If you can’t avoid it, try catching up on the material given in class and be sure to explain to your teacher the reason for your absence; this will ensure you do not miss out on any vital information that may have been mentioned during class.
Be attentive in class and note down key points
It is essential in any class to pay attention while at the same time taking notes on points that may be discussed during the lecture. Handwritten notes significantly can help you remember critical concepts when taking the final exam.
While taking notes, learn how to create your abbreviations for specific terms. It makes it quicker to note down points and helps you stay focused during the lecture.
Study Actively
Together with class discussions, assignments, and quizzes, add to your overall grade after the final exam. Please pay attention to when an assignment or a quiz is due and submit them on time.
Similarly, Keep track of class discussions and respond when prompted. This will help you improve your grades and easily remember the content you have studied throughout your online course.
Ask questions
A teachers’ primary role is to direct course work and guide their students. Do not be afraid to reach out to your lecturer with questions or guidance on how to improve your performance.
Many lecturers will have sessions at least once every week for questions and answers concerning the online course. You can be noting your questions down over the week and ask the lecturer during the Q&A session.
On the Exam Day
Prepare your Machine
It is advisable to ensure that the computer/device you will be using has all the required software and hardware installed and is working correctly. Ensure you have a good and stable internet connection and test the link you will use in advance; this will ensure you have little to no disruptions on your end.
Your computer is what connects you to your class and exams, so its strengths are your strengths too.
Prepare for Technical Problems
Despite being prepared, things could always go wrong. Have a way to contact your lecturer if something does happen.
Notify them of the situation and have something to prove your case, such as a screenshot of the error message. If it is something out of your control, most course facilitators will understand and exercise compassion.
If your instructor allows it, save, and print copies of your test questions and answers, this may prove helpful if technical issues arise during the submission of your answers.
Understand Test Guidelines and Format
Make sure to read the test’s guidelines and the specific date and time the exam will take. Note down the time requirements as well.
Your course instructions should also have location specifications. These inform whether you can do the exam from your home or other specified places, like a campus library or lab.
Similarly, find out what format will be used in the exam. Will it be; multiple-choice, essay, short answer, fill-in, or a combination of the different types. Having a good idea of what to expect will help you avoid panic on the exam day. The more relaxed you are, the better you are likely to perform.
Study and Revise. Don’t depend on Open Book
Online exams are not supervised as it is just not cost-effective to have a supervisor at every student’s residence or study location; this means they are the most open note and open book. Here you have access to your study materials.
This is not to say you do not need to study. In such a setting, exam questions will need short answers that show comprehension of the subject being tackled. And since they are timed, you won’t learn the subject matter in that given time.
Revise before your exams as you would do in a physical, supervised, sit-in exam; this will go a long way in ensuring to stick to each test question’s time allocation.
Recheck Your Work before Submission
Be sure to go through your work again before you submit it.
Please review your answers to see that they are accurate. After you have revised your work, be sure to click submit and ensure it has been received on the other end.
Request Feedback
Please do not be shy to request feedback on your results after they are out.
If you are not happy with the grade, ask your lecturer why you received that grade and what you could have done to better it.
