Tests, tests, and more tests.
That's right ladies and gentlemen, I proctored my first test. Honestly, I can still remember sitting while taking my own test and hating every minute of it. I even remember my very first standardized test that I took in third grade. That's why I really felt for these students and could relate to what they were going through. I was a nerve wracking, intense, and a little scary for many of them. It took the entire three hours for several of the students to finish, so what did I do for three hours?
Not much of anything. You're not allowed to take anything with you, except maybe a bottle of water, you can't read anything from the test, and your not allowed to really answer questions in depth. As a proctor, my main job was to make sure students were bubbling in their answer sheets right while following along with the questions, make sure students weren't cheating or talking, and make sure that all guidelines and rules were being followed. Luckily there was a training and a manual to prepare me for all of this.
I found a website that had four helpful tips when it comes to administering or proctoring a standardized test. I found that these are the most important things and wanted to share them with you all.
1. Wear comfortable shoes!
2. Carry extra pencils and erasers.
3. Take tissues.
4. Read the manual.
The website elaborates more about each of these, so I urge you to check it out.
I'm SO thankful that I was able to partake in this opportunity. Even though I don't believe in standardized testing, the fact of the matter is, it's a part of our system. At this point we have to embrace it and teach our students to do their best.
I know that personally I tend to overlook standard 6 of NCTCS. However, I think that this relates directly to that particular standard. This is helping contribute to academic success of students. We need to help prepare them, but also make them feel comfortable while testing. I think that this can make a huge difference in their performance.
Here is a link to the website for you to check out!
If you have resources or helpful tips for proctoring or administering standardized test, please share!
Lauren,
ReplyDeleteI love this post, my friend! I proctored my first test this past semester, and my experience was very similar to yours! I did all of the things to prepare, but had no idea how exhausting it would be for the students, and for the teachers/proctors (myself included). I love all of the suggestions you posted! Also, I could not agree more with you when you wrote:
"I'm SO thankful that I was able to partake in this opportunity. Even though I don't believe in standardized testing, the fact of the matter is, it's a part of our system. At this point we have to embrace it and teach our students to do their best." You have an incredible attitude about teaching and learning, and it is so encouraging to learn from you!! Love you, friend!
-Meredith
Lauren,
ReplyDeleteI am glad you discussed this aspect of teaching this week. While none of us may "like" testing - it is here (to stay). We must continue teaching to the best of our abilities and focus less on the test. Good teaching and good learning will always help with test scores!