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Moorman, Fiona; Warriner, Gemma and Whitehead, Becca
(2025).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21954/ou.ro.00102268
Abstract
In response to reports of student anxiety about online exams at the Open University, we offered preparation sessions to science students aiming to de-mystify online exam processes and to increase students’ self-efficacy by facilitating them to take ownership and problem solve potential issues.
Following the exam period, a survey was distributed in which students were asked about their preparation for online exams, the usefulness of the preparation sessions and their overall perspectives about their exam experience. E-mail interviews and focus groups were also conducted to gain a greater understanding of some of the issues raised in the survey.
Most students reported that the exam preparation sessions were beneficial for removing uncertainty and reducing anxiety. Post-exam survey findings indicated that most students engaged in the advance planning strategies recommended during the sessions and had a positive experience overall.
Just over 10% of our students who completed the survey indicated that they had been unable to complete their exam. We identified two key themes that had contributed to this issue: lack of time in the exam and technical problems on the day. These issues were explored in greater depth in the subsequent interviews and the focus group. Our recommendations included greater clarity in student communications to reduce the anxiety some students experienced.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
