Examinations are an integral part of Mason’s model, so we do not list them as optional. They serve a couple of very important purposes. First, they serve as a second narration after some time has passed. This gives students an opportunity to think about the ideas again, make new connections, and gain new insights as they look back on the body of work they studied that term.

Second, they allow teachers to see what content made it into each student’s long-term memory. In fact, this second narration actually makes it more likely that the content is, indeed, remembered long-term.

Third, exams are fun! No, really! students actually enjoy sharing what they have learned during a term. This is a chance for them to celebrate their hard work. Many are shocked by how much they learned. It can be encouraging for teachers, as well, to see just how much you were able to do in 11 weeks.

Fourth, reading exam responses is necessary for reflective practice in teaching. It helps teachers take the time to think about what went well during the term and what didn’t. Finally, exam responses help us evaluate the books we recommend, which is why we ask teachers to consider sharing their students’ exams with us.

Overview of Exams (15 min.)

In this video, Dr. Jen Spencer discusses the importance of exams in a Mason education and gives tips for how to make your exam week as smooth as possible.