How can educators help students combat test anxiety?
Between 25 and 40% of students experience some form of test anxiety, from mild to severe, throughout their academic career. Test anxiety is the unsettled feeling that students experience before they take a test, and although it’s expected that students feel slightly nervous before a high-stakes assessment, test anxiety can become overwhelming to the point of causing significant underperformance.
Test anxiety can manifest in various ways, from physical symptoms like headaches and a rapid heartbeat to emotional symptoms such as fear and depression. This anxiety can disrupt students' ability to concentrate, recall information, and perform well, creating a cycle of poor performance and increased anxiety. The diverse causes and symptoms of test anxiety make it challenging to pinpoint a one-size-fits-all solution.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month in the US, we want to take this opportunity to explore the various causes and symptoms of test anxiety, and discuss practical strategies that educators can implement to help students manage and overcome this common challenge. By fostering a supportive and understanding environment, educators can make a significant difference in their students' academic performance and overall well-being.