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December brings end-of-semester tests. Tests bring anxiety.
For students, test time brings up fears and stress unlike any other time of the year. This can really dampen the end of the year if students don't know how to deal with test stress.
Each student deals with test anxiety differently. Some students internalize the stress, others become emotional, and some become panicked. Often, student responses can be unhealthy or can even become harmful habits that end up defeating the purpose of the test.
What's the root of the problem for nervous test takers? Test anxiety can be caused by lack of preparedness, uncertainty of material comprehension, or just fear of having to perform under pressure.
Confidence and being prepared are the best combatants for conquering text anxiety, whether or not the student is learning online or in a traditional setting.
Here are a few ideas for building up student confidence:
For students, test time brings up fears and stress unlike any other time of the year. This can really dampen the end of the year if students don't know how to deal with test stress.
Each student deals with test anxiety differently. Some students internalize the stress, others become emotional, and some become panicked. Often, student responses can be unhealthy or can even become harmful habits that end up defeating the purpose of the test.
What's the root of the problem for nervous test takers? Test anxiety can be caused by lack of preparedness, uncertainty of material comprehension, or just fear of having to perform under pressure.
Confidence and being prepared are the best combatants for conquering text anxiety, whether or not the student is learning online or in a traditional setting.
Here are a few ideas for building up student confidence:
- Encourage strengths. A little compliment about what a student is doing right can go a very long way. Every student needs someone who believes in him.
- Review concepts daily. Preparing for tests means constantly learning and reviewing material, so it's well understood.
- Take practice tests. Simulating a real test can reduce the over-emphasis of the actual event, making a student more comfortable with the environment.
- Confront the fear source. If you understand why a student is scared, you can explain how "the worst case" grade isn't the worst thing in the world.
- Clarify grades vs. learning. Students get trapped in the world of grades. Show how true learning moves a person toward growth much more than memorizing material does
- Have a relaxation routine. Find out what works to calm your student, whether deep breathing, listening to music, exercising, or envisioning success.
