Exam Guidelines and Instructions
Understand the “need to know” things of your online exam outlined by the
course instructor. Read exam guidelines well in advance and thoroughly.
For example,
- What is the date and time of the exam?
- How long do you have to complete the exam?
- Do you have to submit the exam before a certain time? If yes, how much time will it take to submit? When should you stop writing to submit it?
- What are the computer system requirements? Do you need to install any specific apps or use certain browsers?
- What is the exam format? (short answers, multiple choice, case analysis, essay or combination of different formats?)
Reliable Internet Connection
Be sure to be in a suitable location where you have reliable internet access.
Test out your systems ahead of time. Know what the exam policies are in
case of an issue. If you experience a technical problem, let your course
instructor know immediately about the problem. Take a screen shot of any
error messages.
Solid Grasp of Course Contents
Many students assume that online exams are going to be easy because they
have access to textbooks, notes or other resources while taking exam.
Assume that you will have NO TIME to look anything up during the exam, as
this is often the case. Online exams often ask you to APPLY the information
from the course, so looking up information just wastes precious time. Bottom
line, you need to be familiar with the course content even if you are allowed
to use study resources during exam.
Eye on the time
Review the grade value of each question and make a plan. How much time
should you spend on each question? Practice good time management while
taking the exam. If you get confused or need more time on one question,
move to the next one and return to the question later. Your brain will keep
working on it! Do not forget to click ‘save’ or ‘submit’ your answers if the
system does not save your answers automatically.
Academic Integrity
Understand the university academic integrity policies. Be aware of what is
permitted and not permitted during the exam. (e.g. Are you permitted to use
class notes or other resources during the exam?) Do yourself a favour—close
all social media and turn off your phone. Don’t be tempted. It’s not worth a
zero on your exam or worse. Show what you know and learn from what you
don’t. It’s a process not a destination!
Organized Exam Space
Be sure to gather all the materials needed before your start your exam (use a
pencil if you need to work on any calculation, drinking water etc). Eliminate
all distractions and organize your area to help you feel comfortable while
doing your exam.
