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Test-Taking Tips for Online Exams

A- Before You Start The Test (read more)
B- Preparing Your Computer (read more)
C- During the Test (read more)
D- Completing the Test (read more)
E- After the Test (read more)

A- Before You Start the Test

  1. Be certain that you are ready to take the test and set aside time in which you will be free from interruptions BEFORE clicking on the link to the test.
  2. Find out the dates that the test will be available in the course and don't wait until the last minute to take the test!
  3. Find a reliable computer and once you start a test, finish the test without leaving!

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B- Preparing Your Computer

  1. Close down all other programs running on your computer.
  2. Check your settings:
    • America Online (AOL) is not officially campatible with Blackboard or Moodle.
    • If you use "a dial-up modem" to connect to the Internet, turn off "call waiting" and make sure no one picks up the phone and disconnects you from the Internet.
    • Wireless connections are easily disrupted and may result in loss of test.
    • Disable popup blockers as some tests will open in a new window.
    • Disable firewalls before taking the test.
    • Enable your browser's status bar so you see the timer for timed tests.
  3. Verify that you have the minimum System Requirements.
  4. Check your internet connections.
  5. Read the instructions for the test carefully:
    • Some tests may be taken more than once. Your instructor will inform you.
    • Some tests may require that they be completed in one sitting (force completion).
    • Some tests may be timed.
    • Review your test type:
      • Some tests show all the questions at once and permit backtracking.
      • Some tests show one question at a time and may not permit backtracking to a prior question.

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C- During the Test

  1. Do not:
    • Double-click when starting a test. Exams regard the first click as an attempt to take the test; the second click is read as a second attempt and will block access!
    • Open any other windows, surf the net, or visit any other websites while taking a test or your work may be lost.
    • Clicking the Back button or the Refresh button on your web browser or may kick you out of the test. Use the scroll bar to move back.
    • Click Submit, Next or Save more than once on the same question may cause test errors. It may take a few moments to receive confirmation or move to the next question.
    • Close the window of the test for any reason.
  2. Do:
    • Click on a blank area when using a mouse with a scroll wheel to ensure you do not inadvertently change an answer when scrolling.
    • Save your work often during the test using the Save button.
    • Answer all of the questions.

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D- Completing the Test

  1. Review all of your answers before submitting the test.
  2. Make sure to click the Submit button when you are done with the test.
  3. Click Submit ONLY ONCE.

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E- After the Test

  1. If you get locked out of the test, contact your instructor.
  2. If the instructor allows students to view their grades, view them by click Student Tools then My Grades.
  3. Relax!!! You are done with the test.

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