Better Living Through Year-End Exams
Title: Better Living Through Year-End Exams
Content: Year-end exams have already begun for some classes and are about to start for others, creating a palpable tension in the air. While some students are putting in extra effort, others are struggling to keep up. Educators are ramping up initiatives to support, guide, and motivate their students during this crucial time.
Alex, an eighth-grader at a private school in Port-Louis, hasn’t been attentive in class and has fallen behind in his coursework. With exams just a week away, he’s rushing to finish his program but feels anxious and doubts his ability to succeed. Despite trying to study, he can’t concentrate due to his fear of failure. In contrast, Sharon has worked diligently throughout the year, maintaining a regular study schedule. Aware of her daughter’s efforts, her parents encourage her. However, as exams approach in just a week, Sharon suddenly begins to doubt herself, suffering from stomach cramps and mood swings as she develops a fear of failure.
Amal Gopaul, a teacher and member of the AHEAD Association's education commission, identifies two different scenarios that converge on a common concern: the fear of failure fueled by self-doubt. He asserts that "everyone can shine and achieve unimaginable things" and that true education transcends passing exams; it’s about fostering a deep desire to learn and sharpening the mind. He encourages students to stay focused on their goals, emphasizing that it is each individual’s responsibility to decide how to use their smartphones, not the other way around.
Gopaul also stresses the importance of controlling one's thoughts, arguing that overthinking disrupts mental harmony. He believes that while pushing beyond one’s limits is crucial for achieving goals, not maintaining mental harmony leads to friction and stress. He advises avoiding unnecessary tension by letting go of past experiences and concentrating on current tasks.
He also highlights the need to redefine the significance of exams, which students often see as a measure of success or failure. Gopaul encourages looking beyond grades, understanding that exams are tools for developing the mind and that each student has their unique path to success.
Turning to parents, he urges them to ease the pressure they place on their children. He notes that parents often determine their children's futures based on their ambitions, leading to increased stress for both parties, especially as exams approach. Gopaul advises parents to maintain calm and not to project their stress onto their children.
Didier Moutou, the rector of Bhujoharry College, acknowledges that students take this phase seriously, revising diligently and heeding their teachers' advice. However, this period can also be filled with doubt and discouragement for some. He observes that many students realize too late the importance of consistent effort throughout the year, now scrambling to implement the work they should have done earlier. The stress related to exams has resulted in several students not attending the National Certificate of Education (NCE) Art and Design exam, particularly the theoretical part. Moutou laments that while most students excel in practical work, the stress is overwhelming, prompting concerns about their ability to handle pressure.
An internal survey revealed that some students face family or personal issues, exacerbating their anxiety, and Moutou calls for collective mobilization to motivate students. He commends teachers who reach out to absent students and stresses the importance of good planning, encouraging group study, effective time management, and not neglecting sleep.
Harrish Reedoy, another educator, notes a rise in student stress as exams approach. He emphasizes the need for open dialogue among teachers, parents, and students to create a trusting and serene environment. Reedoy explains that academic stress arises from a combination of factors, particularly performance pressure felt by students preparing for the School Certificate (SC) and Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams. The intense competition means that every point can be vital for obtaining a scholarship, compounded by a heavy workload that students struggle to manage without proper methods. Social media amplifies peer comparisons, adding to anxiety. Therefore, Reedoy highlights the importance of teaching students to balance studies, leisure, and rest while providing emotional support.
To help students navigate this period better, awareness and advisory sessions are organized at the school, led by a psychologist. Aimed mainly at SC and HSC candidates, these sessions cover stress management, exam preparation, and coping with post-results anxiety. During exams, students remain at home, making parental support crucial. Parents are encouraged to observe their children, offer encouragement, and maintain a calm environment. If unusual behavior is noted, it is vital to alert the rector for appropriate support.
Reedoy believes that psychological support and mental preparation sessions are essential, asserting that schools must go beyond just imparting knowledge to provide emotional support. These sessions help students build confidence, adopt a positive attitude, and develop techniques for managing pressure. Occasional psychological follow-ups may also benefit those experiencing intense stress.
Regarding assessment methods, Reedoy supports considering alternatives to traditional exams, like projects or continuous assessments, which could better reflect students' overall competencies. However, he acknowledges that the Mauritian educational system remains highly competitive, with a strong focus on results, which dictate access to scholarships, higher education institutions, and certain job opportunities. In the long term, he hopes educational authorities will find a balance between traditional exams and varied assessment methods that value skills like creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Finally, Reedoy emphasizes the crucial role of parents during this period. They should create a serene and motivating home environment, encourage their children, reassure them, and avoid applying excessive pressure. Compassionate dialogue is essential for students to feel supported, regardless of exam outcomes. Parents can also help organize study time, ensure a healthy diet, rest, and regular breaks. If signs of anxiety or discouragement appear, it is crucial to inform the rector or teachers. Reedoy believes that the partnership between school and family is a pillar of students' success and well-being.