I don’t think exams test the students fairly if only memory work is required to achieve the desired grades. Exams should test the accumulated knowledge of both lecture notes and extra readings.
During the exam period I always keep a store of chocolates to get me going or to keep me awake while studying.
The idea of achieving a final goal keeps me going and helps me give it my all.
If I need a break I go for a jog or a walk. Francesco Refalo, Bachelor of Laws, 1st year.
I think most lecturers prepare students well for the exams, so I think we will be tested fairly on the knowledge we learnt throughout the academic year. But some exams are based on memory work and I do not think it is fair on students.
During the exam period, I tend to eat more food, not always the unhealthy stuff though. Exam stress makes me want to eat more comfort food and snacks like chocolate.
Going out and leaving work and study behind me helps me to relieve stress. Meeting friends and enjoying their company helps to take my mind off exams. Rebecca Manduca, B.Sc. Midwifery, 1st year.
To get a good grade in most exams, unfortunately, you just need memory work. This is especially true when the questions are similar from year to year.
Having said that, I believe testing students on memory is the only way an exam can be conducted.
I do my best not to let exam stress affect my health and diet, but with the amount of work exams involve, especially here in Malta, it is hard not to be affected.
Playing football enables me to cope with exam stress. I find studying for long hours without any breaks to be counterproductive. Football helps to clear my mind and serves as an incentive to continue studying. Julian Bonello, B.Sc. Physics and Computer Information Systems, 4th year.