The way I see it: Testing in American vs. England

I am FINALLY done with tests! This past month has been quite the transition into getting back into school mode for me. The English system of testing is extremely different than the American way… Let me explain:

I had the entire month of April off for “revision,” but let’s be honest that didn’t actually happen. Instead, I had 11 weeks of information to relearn in a couple of weeks and I had not had class for close to 7 weeks. The testing period for Exeter this term was May 1^st to June 15^th. It’s been rough for me since most of my flat mates have been done since May 17^th. My first final wasn’t even until the 18^th of May. I will never complain about finishing on a Friday of exam week ever again!!

Another difference with English schools is the weight of the final exams. It varies by class, but at home we are typically tested throughout the semester and attendance is usually calculated into the grade. The final ends up being roughly 20% of the grade. Here, on the other hand, I had two finals worth 80% of my grade and 2 worth 100% of my grade. It gives the illusion of being able to slack off during the term because there is nothing to keep up with when you actually should be working equally hard or even harder. Also, all of my exams had a writing component. Being a math/science major at home entails multiple-choice exams or showing your work. I have not written an essay since I have been at Iowa State.

The school system in general here is a lot different than back home. Back home you can wait as long as you want to declare a major…Heck, you can even graduate as an undecided major! It’s not until the second or third year until you actually get in-depth knowledge based on your major. Here, students declare majors from the start and begin specializing right away. Both sides have their perks: in America you receive a better-rounded education; whereas here you graduate earlier and are able to get a more in-depth education.

I have been asked numerous times, but I am not sure which system I prefer; both sides have their perks and their downfalls. It was a very different environment this term though, and I am glad that I have been able to get a taste of the English system.