Author Question: In general, what are the advantages and disadvantages of allowing students to retake an exam? ... (Read 38 times)

mrsjacobs44 · **on:** Jun 20, 2018

In general, what are the advantages and disadvantages of allowing students to retake an exam?

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

If you were Thad's teacher, would you allow him to retake the test? Why or why not?

What will be an ideal response?

huda · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 20, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Advantages and disadvantages include the following:
Advantages:
The opportunity for retakes decreases the likelihood of debilitating test anxiety.
Retakes are more consistent with a mastery approach to instruction.
Disadvantages:
If students know that they can retake any test on which they do poorly, they may not prepare adequately the first time.
If the retake is a repeat of the first test, then students will study only the material they know is specifically covered on the test.

Answer to Question 2

This is a difficult question to answer. School policy is quite explicit regarding the consequences to be applied when a student is caught cheating; furthermore, it is unfair for Thad not to be punished when Stewart was punished for a similar offense. On the other hand, Thad's grade in calculus should be based primarily on what he's achieved, and he has achieved at a high level.