How do you help students overcome test anxiety or performance-related stress?
4 answers from our tutors
Best answer
This is one of the hardest things for some students to overcome as exams are literally life changing. Depending on the student: This is a fight: if they study martial arts or play any competitive sport, help them to adopt the same attitude about preparation (training) and exam day (game day). Psychologically and physically, the brain adapt adapt in a way that make nerves useful. Focus this type of student on the 90 mins of 'you got this'. At the other end, I'd focus more philosophical students on the idea that 'it's just 90 mins out of your day'. If the test 'doesn't really matter', then there's no harm in bringing all of you to the desk for 90mins. It's a Jedi Mind Trick: if it doesn't matter then the result doesn't matter, so your participation is just something to do. On the surface group 1 might seem more motivated. The reality I've found is that group 2 like Jedi Mind Games....
Working on the things the student finds difficult. It is very easy to just revise the things you know! The student knowing that their teacher is always here and available to help, whenever it is needed.
Encourage my learners to practice simple deep breathing exercises, use positive self-talk and mantras, or do seated stretches to release tension once the test is underway.
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Encourage open communication and provide emotional support to students. Be available to address students' concerns. Communicate expectations clearly so that students know in detail what is expected from them. Equip students with relaxation techniques that they can apply when feeling anxious.
Other student questions
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Hi My first advice is watching TV series and listening podcasts. In addition buying favourite books in English Best regards
