TestTime

When time comes around for quizzes and tests in an online course, there are a couple of things you can do to help make sure you get the highest grade possible.

First, find out if the test or quiz is open book. If so, hopefully you have made your notebook so you have all of your information right at your side. Once you log into Blackboard and have accessed the quiz or test, make sure you read carefully whether the test can be saved and taken later or not. Also, check to see if you can have multiple attempts at the test. If so, there is no reason for you not to get an A because you are able to continue taking the test until you are satisfied with your grade. If the exam is one that can be saved and resumed later, make sure you hit the save button and not the submit button when you take a break.

Now that you know what type of test it is make sure you have the time you need to finish the exam in one shot or not. Once you are in the exam, READ CAREFULLY. Remember, you do not have a professor at the front of the class that you can ask questions of if you are confused. Sometimes jumping right into the test and trying to plug through hurts you. Read each question carefully and make sure you read the instructions for each question. If the question states multiple choice, then you need to pick one answer. If the question states multiple answer, you can pick more than one. It is your responsibility to pay attention to the instructions and to follow them accordingly.

If you have a short answer section on the test, type in your answer, then look at the bottom of the text box to see if you can check your spelling. If you can, do so. If not, copy and paste your answer into a word document and use the spell check there. Make any changes and then copy and paste it back into your answer box. Don't forget to delete your misspelled answer after you have your corrected answer in the box.

Finally, once you are finished make sure you look back over the test to make sure you answered everything. If so, hit the submit box. But, you aren't finished yet. View your results and print them. Once they are printed, put them in your notebook under the quizzes or test section. Having your graded quizzes or tests readily available can help you study for the mid-term and final. Plus, if the test is open book you can refer to your quizzes. Even if the answer isn't on the quiz you should be able to figure out based on the date or material covered on the quiz where you need to look in your textbook or notebook for your answer.

Happy test taking. Hope you get an A!

-- MollyIngram - 04 Jul 2005