Preparing for your online exam

Descriptive transcript

[Upbeat introduction music plays]

Avi: Hey, it's Avi.

Rachel: And this is Rachel.

Avi: Today, we're going to talk about how to prepare for an online exam. This episode is the first part of our three-episode series on online exams. I admit that this is a serious topic, which might be a little tricky to grasp. Don't worry, we'll walk you through the vital information, including some tips and tricks on how to deal with online exams.

Rachel: I don't know about you, but I've actually never taken an online exam. Sure, I've had the occasional quiz that we had to do online, but never my finals. And the fact that we have to do that this semester and potentially the next one as well stresses me out. What if my internet messes up? What if I blank out? What if I look down for a second and the AI thinks I'm cheating?

Avi: Rachel, like you said, I reckon everyone is going through these types of thoughts in exam time. In the past, I had done some coding interviews where another person monitored me, though never have I ever dealt with AI software invigilating me while I write an important exam. However, I do remember that time when UTS was transitioning from closed book to open book exams. Everyone was confused back then, but the fact is that we all managed and did very well. Similarly, we can all go through this new phase of online exams as well by being relaxed and being watchful about the requirements set up by UTS for these exams.

[Short music break]

Rachel: That's actually very reassuring to know, Avi. Changes to exams happen all the time, but time and time again, students prove that they're more than capable to adapt and score well. Now, before we start giving you advice on how to prepare for an online exam, you should be familiar with the terminologies that are being used at UTS. After all, being showered with so many foreign words close to the exam time is so nerve-wracking for us. Since we were nervous about these things, Avi and I went and found out the answers for you.

Avi: Before we get into the technical information, it's important to know that the most up-to-date information will be on the FAQ page linked below. Don't just take our word for it, double-check there as well.

Rachel: To be honest, I'm kind of feeling nervous about whether I've set my computer up properly. What can I do?

Avi: Once you have created an account with ProctorU, you would be provided with an equipment test to ensure that you have correctly set up all the necessary equipment, software and applications. Furthermore, a practice exam on Blackboard or Canvas will be available closer to your scheduled exam to allow you to experience an exam environment using ProctorU.

Rachel: But what if something happens during the online exam, like some sort of technology fails on my computer or the internet crashes?

Avi: First off, don't stress. If your internet crashes, just do your best to reconnect. In a situation where you have a problem with ProctorU, you can access chat support from ProctorU. If you're doing a live invigilated exam, you can talk to your invigilator for help. If it's an issue with Canvas or Blackboard, you can call the special online exam hotline on 02 9415 3222 and they'll help you ASAP. Finally, if it all goes completely pear-shaped and you can't complete your exam, you should apply for special consideration. There are links in the show notes on how to do that.

Rachel: Awesome. Now that you're ready from the tech side of things, how about your physical environment? Well, in my opinion, it's as important as setting up your device for an exam. I mean, imagine this: exam time finally rolls by, you're mentally and physically prepared, you're in the zone solving answers like your life depends on it. And then, your mum comes in to vacuum your room.

To avoid such awkward situations, it's great to be on the same page with the people that you're living with. This means talking to them about your boundaries and what you would like them to do and not to do when exam time rolls by.

Online exams are exams that are online. What I mean is that you prepare for them the same way you would for a face-to-face one. The UTS website has an article titled 'Top Tips to Ace Your Exams'. It has all sorts of helpful advice ranging from limiting your distractions, getting enough sleep, knowing your purpose and even listening to music. To read it, follow the link provided below.

Avi: I reckon the first thing I would do is to take all those practice exams on UTS online for my specific subjects which require AI invigilation so that I can get the hang of ProctorU and its UI. Ideally, doing the practice exams will help me feel relaxed and under control in the actual exam.

Rachel: In summary, preparing for an online exam is no different than a face-to-face one, so don't stress. In an invigilated exam, you will be supervised by an AI to ensure that the appropriate exam conditions are met. To prepare yourself for an exam, read the UTS FAQ page so that you're up to date with all the requirements and be sure to set boundaries with the people that you live with to avoid random distractions on the day.

Avi: We hope you learned something new and informative from this episode. Next week, Rebecca and I will be presenting you with a new topic, which is about how you deal with post-exam aftercare.

[Conclusion music plays]