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Exam Preparation – Academic Integrity/ Exam Writing/ Student Success – Resources

Posted on: Dec 8, 2022

This is a list of resources to support instructors and students during exams and final course assessments. 

For more information about Teaching & Learning at CUE please contact Dr. Verena Roberts cte@concordia.ab.ca

Preparing Students for Exams & Final Course Assessments: 

1. Academic Integrity 

Communicate your exam expectations clearly with your students through an email or in class.  For some students, this may be the first time they have taken an exam in a university context. Many high school students did not complete Alberta diploma exams or they may have completed exams in another country with different exam writing expectations. Setting clear expectations will lessen student exam anxiety and foster awareness about academic integrity.

Exam expectations could include things like: 

  • You are expected to review the CUE Academic Honesty Policy in the Student Calendar (Section 9.2.5 of the CUE Academic Calendar)
  • Please use the restroom before the exam begins; students are not allowed (or are allowed) to leave and return to an exam.
  • Have only authorized exam materials (describe the authorized items for your course) on your desk.
    • Turn off and put away all electronics.
    • Put away all study materials.
  • You are prohibited from consuming food and drinks (with the exception of water in a clear bottle with no label).
  • NO: papers, books, electronic devices, etc. Pencils or pens only
  • Turn phones OFF and put them away – phones may not be visible.Take hats and hoods off.
  • Put all bags, books, hats, phones, etc., up front or under seats.
  • Do not sit next to anyone; keep a minimum of one empty seat between each student.
  • Use only your own desk, not the one next to you.
  • Do not speak with other students during the exam – if you have a question, raise your hand.
  • Keep your eyes on your own paper, or straight up in the air – not to your right, left, or over the shoulder of the person in front of you.
  • Use a #2 pencil only (for bubble sheet / multiple choice questions).
  • Fill out bubble sheet info correctly and completely.
  • Set and announce a common/consistent “End Time” for the exam (all sections, all rooms).
    • For example: The end time for all exams is 120 minutes after they are distributed. 
  • When you leave the examination room, please close the door gently.
  • When you submit your exam, ensure that your name is clearly written on each separate document submitted.

Click HERE for an Academic Integrity Faculty Checklist 

Consider the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework when designing and giving exams or summative assessments of any kind. 

CTE

2. Creating an Exam: 

These resources and suggestions from the University of Waterloo are extremely helpful when preparing for an exam. 

3. Learning Strategies for STUDENT Success

Great student studying and support resources from the University of Toronto: 

Additional Resources: