Introduction
Even before receiving his ninth-grade final exam results, 15-year-old Lourembam Sanathoi started taking coaching classes to prepare for the stressful 10th-grade board exams. He believes that starting early will improve his performance. Sanathoi is not alone, as 20 other students also attend coaching classes for all subjects in the morning and evening. However, the recent announcement by India’s Ministry of Education that board examinations for grades 10th and 12th will be conducted twice a year starting from the academic session 2024-25 has left Sanathoi and his friends shocked. This new move raises concerns about increased stress levels among students and parents.
Positive and Negative Sides of Two Board Exams in a Year
Conducting board exams twice a year has both positive and negative sides. On the positive side, students have a second chance to appear for the exams, allowing them to reduce the fear of failure. It also gives them an opportunity to improve their preparation and learn from their experience in the first attempt. On the negative side, the higher frequency of exams can lead to a more frequent cycle of stress for students. The pressure to perform well in both exams increases, and there is a constant sense of exam-related stress throughout the year. Additionally, the focus of education may shift towards exam-centric learning, potentially impacting holistic understanding and skill development. Moreover, students have limited breaks between exam cycles, which can affect their mental and emotional well-being.
Tips to Reduce Exam Stress in Children
To alleviate exam stress in children, there are several strategies that parents and teachers can implement:
1. Create a positive classroom environment: Teachers can establish a supportive and positive classroom environment by promoting open communication, offering study tips and techniques, providing regular feedback, and setting realistic expectations.
2. Organize stress-relief activities: Teachers can introduce stress-relief activities for students, such as mindfulness exercises, experiential learning, project-based learning, and group discussions. These activities can effectively help students manage their stress levels and facilitate long-lasting learning.
3. Set realistic expectations: Parents and teachers should avoid placing excessive pressure on children to achieve unrealistic goals. It is important to set achievable expectations that consider the child’s abilities and learning style. Taking a balanced approach to academics reduces the fear of failure and resulting stress.
4. Encourage breaks and leisure activities: Both parents and teachers should emphasize the importance of breaks and leisure activities during study periods. Taking breaks allows the brain to rest and rejuvenate, leading to improved concentration and retention. Engaging in hobbies, physical activities, and spending time with friends can also serve as healthy distractions from exam-related stress.
If a child continues to experience exam stress and struggles with sleep or mood disturbances, it is advisable to consult a psychologist for further assistance.
