Exam study skills guides
Why?
Many students have never been explicitly taught how to study, and instructors have varying expectations regarding student performance. Providing guidelines and suggestions may help improve students’ preparation.
Examples
Study skills guides could include[1][2][3][4]:
Practice questions.
Instructions for solving particular types of problems or responding to specific question types.
Assessment criteria for each type of question and model responses.[5][6]
Suggestions for implementation [4]
Provide guide(s) in class. Have students question and comment on it (them).
After the exam, debrief with students to determine how helpful the guide was.
Provide guide(s) online as a course resource.
Refrences
[1]Guardian Teacher Network. (2014). How to teach … coping with exam stress.
[2]Hamilton, T. (2009). Effective strategies for reducing test anxiety. Faculty Focus.
[3]Skinner, F. (2015). Dropping scores: The case for hope. Faculty Focus.
[4] 1 2 Weimer, M. (2008). Teaching strategies: Frequent exams = better results for students. Faculty Focus.
[5]Boud, D., & Associates. (2010). Assessment 2020: Seven propositions for assessment reform in higher education. Australian Learning and Teaching Council.
[6]Yorke, M. (2003). Formative assessment in higher education: Moves towards theory and the enhancement of pedagogic practice. Higher Education 45(4), 477-501.
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