Covid-19, Mental Health and Exams: Steps to Help Students Achieve Their Learning Goals

It goes without saying, but Covid-19 has caused a nice little disruption in students’ education and wellbeing. From school closures to exam stress, we’re left floating in a void of uncertainty. What’s next? To help clear up the confusion, we share a few tips on how you can regain control, reduce anxiety and achieve your learning goals. ​

How has Covid-19 affected students’ learning goals?

While many of you may have initially enjoyed some (well-deserved) time off school, it’s safe to say you’re not in Kansas anymore. In fact, you’re picking up the pieces of your disrupted education. Many of you will be feeling a little overwhelmed. 

What you might be feeling really let down by is the ‘plan’ in place for exams, before, during and after Covid. The Guardian reports that school closures hit exam years the most. Those without access to digital systems fell behind their peers, and 1 in 4 of you said you couldn’t get help from family members. 

The challenges on mental health

In a study of over 60,000 students, those in year 10 to 13 were affected the most, typically feeling more anxious, unmotivated and less confident in achieving their learning goals. So if you’re feeling the same, remember that you’re not alone. You’ve had a lot to process, so give yourself a pat on the back for trying to snap back into a routine. With the constant see-saw of rules and regulations, it’s only natural to feel worried about the future.

We hear your worries and are here to help. We have a few tips on ways you can best prepare for exams, and ultimately, achieving your learning goals.

What to expect in exams post-covid

Despite all the massive hoo-ha over the last 18 months, it seems like regular exam procedures are back on track. Or at least more knowledge about what works and what definitely does not when it comes to sitting exams remotely. Either way, if you have any upcoming exams in January 2022, you’ll probably be sitting them in the school hall (this was usually a sports gym for me!) with the rest of your peers. 

However, the government has warned the nation about potential school closures over the winter period again. Before you groan, here’s what you should do: revise for your exams as normal. You would much rather have the practise under your belt, than go into an exam feeling clueless and end up panicking even more. So be prepared in case of any sudden changes!

In the event that teachers will take on the role of examiner, you’ll most likely achieve your target grades. For exam protocol, you may have to sit exams online and log in to software that tracks exam status. This means you’ll be under “exam conditions” and monitored. Alternatively, you might be asked to submit all your coursework as evidence of your learning. So make sure you keep on track for your deadlines and ask your teachers for support – that is what they are there for, make sure you make the most of them. Don’t leave it to the last minute.

If you’re someone who hasn’t had any experience and this is your first real exam year, don’t stress. You might even remember taking SATs or even the 11+ exams in school. Also, if you’re someone who has taken mocks throughout secondary school, final exams have the exact same feel to it. In the event that you do end up taking online exams, you’ll need a computer with internet access. Some of the online exams are 24 hours, allowing time for breaks, whilst others are a set 2 hours (with no ability to use Google… so no cheating allowed).

7 tips to prepare for exams and reach your learning goals 

Finally, here are a few tips to help with exam anxiety and preparation: 

1. Talk to someone: whether it’s a friend or family member, talking really is the best therapy. Sharing your feelings – however big or small they seem – can help you find calm and rebuild a positive mindset. 
   
2. Plan ahead: even if your exams are months away, it’s always best to be prepared. As the famous saying goes: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” So create a revision timetable or To-Do list to prioritise your workload.
   
3. Schedule breaks: no matter how much revision or homework is on your plate, always remember to take a break. Studies show that taking 5 minute breaks every 20 minutes really is one of the best ways to learn and retain information. 
   
4. Utilise the Internet: get connected with like-minded students and find ‘revise with me’ videos or virtual study rooms. This can motivate you to study and it also feels like you’re in the classroom, creating that productive atmosphere. 
   
5. Talk to your teacher: your teachers are there to help. If you are feeling overwhelmed or behind, talk to a teacher about it - whether that’s your form tutor, head of year, subject teacher - or whoever you feel comfortable with. They want you to reach your potential and can help you plan and manage your time, or support you with some one-to-one sessions.
   
6. Hire a tutor: if you’re worried that you’re way behind on your learning goals and want some additional support outside of school, a private tutor can help you with any problem topics, or exam preperation.
   
7. Socialise: remember to prioritise your wellbeing – you’re young, so have fun! Go out with your friends, have movie nights and get outside. Fun distractions are so important and will drown out any thoughts that add anxiety and pressure in your day to day life. Also, the sun is a natural source of Vitamin D, which alleviates symptoms of depression and SAD. And as winter is coming, you might also consider investing in Vitamin D supplements...
   

Hopefully, these tips will leave you feeling more confident and in control, ready to face whatever Covid throws at you. No matter what happens, just know that I believe in you and you can do this.

Author

Naida Allen is a Content Writer at Tutor House who specialises in physical health & wellbeing and careers advice. You’ll find her at a quirky coffee shop, or at home snuggled up with a crime thriller novel.