Take Preparation for Oral Test or Viva Voce - Some Tips & Tricks

Tips for Oral Test

The oral exam (also oral test or viva voce) is a practice in many schools and disciplines, where an examiner poses questions to the student in spoken form. The student has to answer the question in such a way as to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the subject in order to pass the exam.

Many science programs require students pursuing a bachelor's degree to finish the program by taking an oral exam or a combination of oral and written exams in order to show how well a student has absorbed the material studied in the program. Usually study guides or a syllabus are made available so that the students may prepare for the exam by reviewing practice questions and topics likely to be on the exam.

Some medical schools use oral exams for 2nd and 3rd year students, not just to test knowledge, but the ability to respond on the spot. Students are required to take an oral exam prior to being awarded a PhD. Some universities allow the option of either taking written and oral exams, or completing a project or thesis, but occasionally all three are required for graduation. Oral exams are distinct from a defense of a thesis in that the questions in the latter are more narrow and specific to the topic of the thesis.

Graduate students are sometimes allowed to choose their examiners for oral exams.

Sometimes the oral exam is offered in schools as an alternative to a written exam for students with a learning disability, like dysgraphia, dyspraxia, or non-verbal learning disorder. Often the parents of the students have to request that the oral exam be given to their child in lieu of the written exam. Oral tests are intimidating and require extensive preparation, but the following strategies will prepare you to ace your next oral test:

* Spend the necessary time studying for an oral test. Be thoroughly knowledgeable about the subject your will be tested on. During your preparation, practice answering any question your teacher could test you on.

* Never arrive late for an oral exam. For this reason, be sure to confirm the location and time of the test beforehand. Being tardy can result in a lower test score.

* Before the exam, ask your instructor about the concepts you'll be required to understand and whether you're permitted to use visual aids and other teaching materials. You should also inquire about appropriate dress. If visual aids are used, do not rely too heavily upon them.

* Avoid mumbling or speaking in a monotone voice. Do not rush through the test and alter your voice tone. Practice speaking before the test.

* Practice for the test by creating possible questions and answering them. This will prepare you for what could appear on the test and help you improve your speaking skills. It is best to practice with a classmate familiar with the terms and concepts that could appear on the test.

* If you intend to use an overhead projector or computer, be sure these devices are working properly before the test.

* Since body language is an important component of public speaking, prepare for the test by practicing in front of a mirror. It is also a good idea to make an audio recording to evaluate your speech.

* Dress appropriately for your test since poor dress can distract from your presentation. This in turn could result in a lower grade.

* Be very attentive to instructions and test questions. When a question is unclear, ask your teacher for clarification.

* Speak so your instructor can understand you. Also, provide multiple examples and speak in complete sentences.

* Act professionally during your presentation. Take time at the end of your presentation to thank your teacher.

* Turn off your cell phone before taking the exam.

* Dress accordingly.

* Maintain good eye contact and posture. Don't slouch if you're sitting or lean if you're standing.

* Pay close attention to the questions asked. If you don't understand the question ask for clarification or ask your instructor to repeat the question.

* Speak in complete sentences. Try not to give one or two word answers, whenever possible.

* Be sure to thank the instructor for his/her time when you are finished with the test. শিক্ষা সংক্রান্ত খবরাখবর নিয়মিত পেতে রেজিস্ট্রেশন করুন অথবা Log In করুন।

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