By Lydia Winda

Mid- Semester Exams are around the corner and probably you are experiencing exam fever especially for those doing online exams for the first time. Below is a guide on how to prepare for USIU-Africa’s online exams;

PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED EXAM

1. Read and understand the test guidelines i.e.
   • Make sure you have access to your blackboard
   • Know the time and date for your scheduled exam
   • Know the duration of your exam
   • Know any additional instructions set by your lecturer
2. Know the format of your exam i.e. is it MCQs, short answer questions or essay format.
3. Make sure you have a working device that you’ll be using to take your exam (laptop, desktop, tablet etc.) and they are well charged.
4. Make sure you have downloaded and tested out Respondus Lockdown & Monitor as instructed by your lecturer. If the exam is being administered via lockdown, log in at least ten minutes in advance to alleviate any challenges that might me experienced.
5. Confirm if a webcam is required for your exam so that you acquire one and test it before the exam.
6. Study - Even though it’s an online exam, prepare for it and study as you normally would when preparing for a physical exam.
7. If you don’t treat it with the same respect, then you might go in with a bad mentality and this is likely to affect your performance.
8. Find a good spot to take the test - Make sure you've turned off all distractions like the television, phone, social media, and all notifications. Gather all the things you will need, including, notebook or paper, pens or pencils to work out mathematical problems or to jot notes.
9. Make sure you have your lecturer’s email address or phone number just in case you experience any challenges during the exam.

DURING THE EXAM;

• Find a quiet place that you’ll be taking the exam
• Read the instructions first before starting the exam
• Keep an eye on the timer always
• Always save your answer before moving to the next
• Plan your answers, start with easy questions first that will take less time and move on to harder ones depending on whether the exam allows you to go back to previous questions or not.

TECHNICIAL PROBLEMS;

• Don’t panic, stay calm and take a deep breath
• Call the USIU-Africa help desk and IT and ask for assistance on 0730-116333 or Whatsapp chat them on 0735-000377 or email helpdesk@usiu.ac.ke
• Call your lecturer and ask for a way forward

All the best in your exams!

Best Wishes