Preparation for a university exam: Students' points of view

Abstract

This study examined students' reports about the content of exam preparation, factors influencing exam preparation, and behavior and mental strategies applied during exam preparation. The study was based on an analysis of data gained by way of interviews and group discussions with students, a questionnaire survey among students, and student seminar works. The findings indicate that student's study effort is influenced by context. Students think that effective exam preparation involves a coordination of study efforts and rest, but their study strategies differed according to their motivation for the studies, complexity of the topic, its perceived benefit for their future career, their lecturer, and the amount of unsuccessful trials. Generally, participants reported mainly problem-focused strategies for dealing with the exam preparation and a preference for a deep approach to learning. © Common Ground Research Networks, Jana Matošková, Gabriela Potočková, All Rights Reserved.