APC helps students prepare for ‘The Big Test’

The Activity and Programming Council (APC) sponsored an event titled “Preparing for the BIG Test” Tuesday at the Student Union Room 401A 11:30 a.m.

APC designed the event to help students prepare for finals by educating them on proper study methods.

Dr. Lynette Sparkman-Barnes of the UMKC Counseling Center spoke at the event. A student panel represented UMKC’s Supplemental Instruction (SI) program with SI leader Kody Merwine and Executive Board Member Aviana Hinton from The African-American Student Union (TAASU).

“There was a range of different kinds of students represented, from traditional and nontraditional students to students of different cultural backgrounds and degrees of study,” APC Educational Coordinator Sandra Dupree said.

“The diverse representation allowed participants to share their unique experiences with one another,” she added.

The event offered food catered by Sodexo and gift bags for attendees with items like APC logo water bottles and oatmeal packets.

For helpful tips, Sparkman-Barnes addressed frustrations concerning test-taking and studying, mentioning each test depends on the professor and questions they ask. The big test is not necessarily just the materials covered in class.

Sparkman-Barnes pointed out it is critical for students to talk to professors about issues that may interfere with students’ understanding of the material.

This also helps the professor get to know the student as an individual rather than just a name on the roster.

Attendee Junior Joshua Shelman was optimistic after hearing Sparkman-Barnes speak.

“I really found the event helpful,” Shelman said. “I never realized how horrible my study habits were until I found out that I was being a passive learner. I’m glad the APC put this event on, and hopefully the things I learned will help me with my finals.”

Among ideas Sparkman-Barnes gave the attendees was the importance of talking to professors and doing more than just reading over and studying course material.

It’s critical for students to challenge themselves with the material rather than just wait for the feeling that they know it.

“For those who have [test anxiety], they should make themselves more familiar with what makes them anxious,” Sparkman-Barnes said. “Sit at home and set up a testing situation. Arrive at the exam with enough time to find a seat and take the test. It won’t work trying to study 20 minutes before, it actually might sabotage you even further by causing more anxiety.”

Students can also make use of Teacher’s Assistants and SI sessions as well as the UMKC Counseling Center at 4825 Troost Ave.

“Open your mouths,” Sparkman-Barnes said. “You’re in college, you’ve invested a lot.” abyrne@unews.com