Monday, March 23, 2009

Examination Stress

EXAMINATION STRESS

E- Emptiness in mind

X- Xtra self doubt

A- Anxious

M- Mysterious behaviour

S-Short tempered

T-Tensed

R-Retrieval failure

E-Encoding difficulty

S-Syllabi completion pressure

S-Subject aversion

March is the month, which is perceived as highly stressful for the ones who are appearing for Board exams. The word ‘Exam’ itself creates a lot of anxiety. Examination anxiety is a fairly common phenomenon that involves feelings of uneasiness that occurs before, during and after the examination. It’s not seen only in the so-called “ Not very bright” students. Nervousness, worry, fear of failure are normal for even the most talented students.

Why examination anxiety is of concern?

In exam situation generally students are unable to perform at a level, which matches the potential they show in less stressful classroom situations.

Examination stress has been characterized as “ evaluative apprehension” or “evaluative stress” and produces debilitating behavioral, cognitive and physiological effects. Children with examination anxiety show following symptoms:

-Tension

-Apprehension

-Nervousness

-Emotionally aroused

-Lack of concentration

-Negative thoughts

-Feelings of inadequacy

-Helplessness

-Disruptive eating and sleep patterns

 

How to reduce examination anxiety?

-Don’t procrastinate

-Spend enough time on studies

-Overview and weigh your strengths and weaknesses

-Discuss difficulties with teachers and classmates

-Focus on time management

-Condense notes

-Space out revision periods

-Concentrate on staying calm.

If examination is perceived positively it can maximize one’s potential and it will improve the results.

The new version of EXAM STRESS:

E- Enlighten

X- Xtra Zeal

A-Another Hurdle crossed successfully

M- More Confident

S- Strength analysis

T- Talent showing platform

R- Resilient personalities

E- Energetic

S- Stress resistant

S- SUCCESSFUL