Oral and practical exams

All types of exams are used to assess how well you have learned knowledge and skills during the semester. Therefore, it is possible for you to know the exact content that will be on the exams. 

To work this out, search the unit description found in Moodle for the unit’s learning objectives. Learning objectives are the skills and knowledge that you are required to learn and then demonstrate in your exams. 

Study for your oral and practical exams with a focus on the learning objectives. Instead of trying to reread everything you have read or experienced for the whole semester, you can search readings, lecture materials, your notes, and videos for the information that relates directly to the learning objectives. 

This will focus your study time and allow you to refresh exam material multiple times. This repetition is key for getting knowledge into your long-term memory, and for practicing skills. 

With adequate preparation, you will be able to discuss the topics with confidence, rather than trying to search for answers while you speak. 

Here are some tips for oral exams: 

• Ask if you can write down a complex question or one with multiple parts to ensure you recall all of it. 
• Ask for things to be repeated: If you are not sure if you understood a question, or you forget a part, ask for the question to be repeated. 
• Don’t try to ‘sound academic’ when speaking: In an oral exam, aim to speak clearly and simply. Most important is that your communication is accurate so that the assessors can understand your points. 
• Use words from the question: Repeating key terms from the question in your answer will not only focus your thinking but will also be noticed by the assessor.  
• Be on time: Racing to an oral exam late will only cause you to feel breathless and more stressed. Plan to arrive at an oral exam with enough time to sit quietly and focus your mind beforehand. 

Ensuring you are prepared and well rested will positively impact your confidence and performance in an oral exam. 

These exams generally assess how you demonstrate key practical skills. The following tips will help minimise nerves so you can feel confident in your practical exam. 

• Attend classes and labs: Practicing for practical exams first happens in class, so go to the classes and labs! Many labs are compulsory to ensure that you experience the skills you will be assessed on later. 
• Practice: Repetition is key. Ask your lecturer if you can use a lab outside of class time to practice. You may be able to practice at home with family or friends. Watch videos online of other people demonstrating the skills. 
• Write notes: During class and labs, write down the order of processes or tasks. It is important to record tips that could help you in your practical exam. 
• Follow instructions: Read or listen carefully to what is requested in the exam and ask for clarification if you need. Perform the exact task asked of you by the assessor. If you notice you have made a mistake, calmly correct yourself. 
• Be on time: Arriving late to a practical exam can cause you to feel flustered and even more nervous. Give yourself time to compose yourself before entering the exam room. 

With enough preparation and rest beforehand, you will be better able to perform those skills naturally and with confidence. 

Remember that Federation University Australia has many teams of staff to support students: 

• Learning skills advisors (LSAs): You can book in with an LSA to discuss studying for, and performing, oral exams. 
• Accessibility: You can meet with someone from Accessibility Services to discuss any particular learning needs you have that you believe will impact your performance in oral or practical exams. 
• Your unit coordinator is the key contact about content. They will have organised and designed these exams, and they are the best person to answer questions about them. 

You can find many other supports in the menus on your Moodle dashboard. These include Counselling, International Student Support, the Aboriginal Education Centre, and more.