Why have Exams ?

Exams are set to provide your lecturers with information about your knowledge and understanding of the course that may not be available through other forms of assessment. They can test your:

• ability to recall and apply theory.
• knowledge of the content area.
• critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• communication skills in the absence of aids like word. processors.
• ability to work alone and under pressure.
• work's authenticity.

There are advantages for you personally in learning how to perform well in exams.  There will be situations in your personal and professional life when you'll need to perform an important task in a limited time, that is under pressure.  Learning how to prepare for and perform well in exams can also prepare you for such occasions.

You might find it useful to read some of the reasons for exams given in the University's Guidelines for Examinations.

 Success in exams is a matter of learning how to prepare for them and how to sit them (bit too simple!).

  Next: Types of exams