Exams: The LSESU Guide
Introduction to LSE Exams Hi, We know that exam season can be a stressful and anxious time for everyone. Nationally, 96% of students say they feel anxious about exams and revision, and that is no different here at LSE. As your Students Union, we are here to help in any way we can and make sure your exam period is as smooth as possible. Throughout the term we will be hosting a full series of ‘De-Stress’ events, and we have put together this useful this booklet which contains all the information you need for the exam period.
If you have any other questions then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We hope revision goes well and we wish you the best of luck with your exams! Jon & Aysha
Jon Foster Education Officer su.education@lse.ac.uk
We’ve included tips on revision and study space, a guide of what to expect on the day, information on exam regulations and procedures, and everything you need to know to make sure you’re prioritising your welfare alongside your studies.
Aysha Fekaiki Community & Welfare Officer su.communitywelfare@lse.ac.uk
We’ve also included loads of useful contacts from within the school so that if you have any questions or problems throughout Summer Term you know where to go.
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Contents 4
On the day
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Revision tips
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Study space
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Extra support
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Wellbeing, support and advice network
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De-stress fest: What’s happening
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On the day What to know in advance
Exams at LSE can be intimidating, particularly if you’ve never sat them here before. Below, we’ve put together some key information of what you can do to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.
In advance of your exams, it is a good idea to have a quick look over some of the basic regulations. All the essential information you need to know can be found on your personal exam timetable. Make sure you know the correct start time and room for your exam and if need be, familiarise yourself with your route to the location so there are no surprises on the day.
What you need First things first, ensure you have all the materials you need: pens, pencils, highlighters, a calculator if permitted. You will also need to take a printed copy of you exam timetable and your LSE ID, both of which you should place on your desk once seated. If you forget either of these, it isn’t the end of the world but it may complicate things. Mobile phones are permitted in the exam room but they must be switched off and placed under your desk. It is advisable to take a bottle of water with the label removed!
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Arrive in good time
Relax
Once you know the time and location of your exam it’s important to arrive in good time. Set aside enough time to get there, allowing for any delays or travel disruptions; It’s important to arrive at least fifteen minutes before the exam start time so that you don’t miss any important instructions.
This one is far easier said than done, but implementing your own coping strategies, such as breathing exercises, can be an invaluable way of combating exam anxiety. Exams can be stressful but there is loads of support here to make it as smooth a process as possible. Remember your Student’s Union is here to support you.
Do your own thing Once you arrive at the exam location, do whatever you need to do to prepare. Some people like to go over revision notes, others prefer to reflect in silence or chat to peers. The important thing is that there is no one way of preparing for exams, do what works for you!
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Revision tips Be Organised
Use what’s there
It’s important to know what topics you are revising and be prepared without panicking about how much you are revising. Be clear on the number of topics you intend to revise and create a revision timetable that is realistic and flexible, to account for any unexpected changes. Review the course materials and clarify any questions or issues you may have. Most importantly, make your own priorities clear and don’t compare yourself to your peers. One of the key reasons we feel exam stress is from comparing ourselves to others. It’s important not to forget that your exam results are just a small part of who you are.
Make the most of the resources that exist at LSE. Doing past papers are one of the most effective forms of revision, and for the vast majority of courses should be available via Moodle. On many courses, similar themes are revisited in exams each year so it is useful to get a feel for what markers may be looking for. Reviewing the course materials and going over questions that have been asked throughout the year should stand you in good stead.
Talk to people Just because it’s Summer Term doesn’t mean academics have left. Talk to people whilst they are still here, if you have questions for your lecturers of class teachers then get in touch with them, make use of any revision classes or lectures that are being offered. Also, make sure you don’t just revise alone, although independent study is important it can be incredibly useful to discuss topics with classmates, sharing ideas and resources.
Working how it suits you Some of us aren’t morning people and not everyone finds themselves most productive in the library. There is no best place or time to work, so let revision work around you! Even the best made revision plans can be disrupted with unexpected events, so make sure you add in some spare space to preempt these changes.
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Take breaks
You can also email them at: student.counselling@lse.ac.uk.
No one can study all day effectively, and psychologists say we can only concentrate properly for 30-45 minutes. Ensure that you are eating well to avoid highs and lows of blood sugar by eating slow-release foods like bread, rice, pasta and fruit and veg and drink plenty of water for productivity. Exercising is one of the quickest and most effective ways to de-stress. Fresh air will clear your head and perk you up, Even a short walk will do.
You can also get in touch with our own LSESU Advice Centre for guidance on exam regulations or any problem relating to your time at LSE by calling +44 (0)20 7955 7158 or emailing su.advice@lse.ac.uk They also run daily drop in sessions in the Saw Swee Hock building (11-1, Monday-Friday). If you’re having any problems with one of your courses or simply have a question, there are numerous people you can get in touch with whose details should be available via Moodle or LSE For You:
Your routine at LSE is important for managing your mental health. While you may need to cut back on social activities during exam periods, it is important that you keep some of your routine, especially when things get stressful. This can be phoning home, meeting friends for supper, taking time to play sport or watching a film.
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Ask for help
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Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support. The exam period can be stressful, so if you need help make sure you get it. LSE has a dedicated Counselling Service which offers free 20 minute drop in sessions to all students at 2:45pm everyday in KSW 5.07.
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For issues relating to a specific course, speak to your Class Teacher or the Course Convener. For more general issues or questions relating to revision speak to you Academic Advisor. For issues within your department or if you’re experiencing a problem with your Academic Advisor, get in touch with your Departmental Tutor.
Study space Study Space on campus can fill up quickly and during exam time it can seem as if there is nowhere to work. Below is some useful information we’ve drawn together on the best study places on and off campus.
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LSE Library
Elsewhere at LSE
Finding a study space in the Library come exam time can sometimes feel like a form assessment itself! However, this year with the newly renovated fourth floor and the PhD academy there are more places to study in the building than ever before. Also, remember that some individual and group study spaces can be booked in advance via the Library website to make things easier. These areas should be clearly signposted, so make sure to take notice of where you are studying.
In addition to the Library, there are lots of other great places to study on campus so make use of the full range of space that is available. Some commonly used spots are the Shaw Library, the 8th Floor of NAB and the first floor cafe in the Saw Swee Hock building. There are also loads of great places to revise in Clement House and Old Building so don’t be afraid to explore. If your department is lucky enough to have a Departmental Common Room then that can also be a great (and often underused) resource!
Throughout the Easter break and Summer Term the library will be open 24 hours a day and during the day there will always be Library staff on hand to help with any questions or problems. If you are having difficulty locating a particular resource of reading then in addition to finding a member of staff, you can email.
Like last year, we have booked at least eight classrooms in 32 Lincoln’s Inn Fields everyday of the exam period, which will be open to all LSE students. These classrooms will be clearly marked with LSESU signs. Please make use of them. More information will be available on our Twitter or Facebook and if you have any questions just get in touch su.education@lse.ac.uk.
You can also get in touch with your Departments Academic Support Librarian who will be able to provide subject expertise and more personalised support - you can find the full list of departmental librarians as this link: lse.ac.uk/academicsupportlibrarian
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Away from LSE Sometimes it can be useful to revise away from the LSE bubble, and there are some great places all around London that are open to students. Other Libraries: The British Library has the 2nd greatest collection of books anywhere in the world, is free and membership cards are really easy for students to get. Senate House Library is an excellent resource available to University of London students with a collection focused on the arts, humanities and social sciences - registration in advance is required but extremely easy to do online. The National Art Library is a quiet, airy and beautiful place to revise with no need to become a member, just make sure to check their slightly odd opening hours in advance. Also as a member of the University of London, LSE Students are entitled to take advantage of many other University Libraries across London. To take advantage all you need is your LSE ID, to find out full details visit http://www.london.ac.uk/582.html Elsewhere: Don’t just stick to libraries! There are loads of fantastic places to study; Google Campus can be incredibly useful, as can cafes such as The Department of Coffee and Social Affairs. If the weather is good, then revising on one of London’s many parks can be a brilliant way to revise in a relaxing setting!
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Extra support Individual Exam adjustments
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Individual exam adjustments are intended to ensure that disabled students and those with a long term medical condition, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty can reach their full potential under timed assessment conditions. Individual exam adjustments are often based on your Individual Student Support Arrangement (ISSA)/LSE Inclusion Plan (LIP). If you do not have an ISSA/ LIP in place by March you can submit a late application for individual exam adjustments (or apply for short term individual exam adjustments, depending on the nature of your circumstances). If you want further advice on this you can contact the Student Services Centre, the Disability and Wellbeing Service or our own Advice Service. Examples of individual exam adjustments and accommodations: • Extra time • You will usually take your exam in a room with a small number of students (although the exact number can vary)
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An examination paper in an alternative format Use of specialist equipment (eg. ergonomic keyboard) The use of a computer
Fit to sit If you are feeling poorly it is therefore strongly advisable that you consider whether you really are well enough to take the test before stepping into the examination room.
Becoming ill If you can’t attend an exam, you must let the Student Services Centre know as soon as possible (020 7955 6167). The LSE Students’ Union Advice Service can advise on any problems, so do get in touch if you wish to explore your options: Phone: 020 7955 7158 Email: su.advice@lse.ac.uk Web: lsesu.com/advice. You can also contact the School’s Student Services Centre if you have any exam-related queries and, during the exam period, their phone lines will open at 9:30am. Phone: 020 7955 6167
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Deferring your exam Requesting to defer an exam until next year’s exam period can be done once you have received all of your tuition. The deadline is normally one day before the exam in question – however, you should contact your department as soon as possible about this.
Exceptional Circumstances This should be submitted if you believe that the exam you sat was impacted by unforeseen circumstances beyond your control. The deadline for this is seven calendar days after the date of your final exam or assessment (unless it is a week zero exam, where the deadline is seven days after the last exam in that period) and our Advice Service can help you with the process.
Disabilities related support Extra support is given to students with a disability or ongoing health condition (physical or mental) such as extra time. Contact the LSE Disability and Well-being Service for more advice (disability-dyslexia@lse.ac.uk). If you do receive support yet still feel that your condition affected your performance in a particular exam (or set of exams), you must submit exceptional circumstances.
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STUDENT SERVICES
TEACHING AND LEARNING CENTRE
STUDENT WELLBEING SERVICE
ADVICE TEAM Responsible for providing pastoral support, academic advice, guidance on School regulations and policy
WORKSHOPS The TLC provides workshops to help reduce stress and improve academic performance. For the full schedule, check out: www.lse.ac.uk/tlc
www.lse.ac.uk/studentwellbeing | Room OLD G.23, Ground Floor, Old Building
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT IMMIGRATION SERVICE Drop-ins available Monday to Friday during term time, 2–3pm, at the Old Building Reception
ONE-TO-ONE ADVICE The TLC also offers one-to-one advice on study skills and writing. For more info, contact 020 7852 3627 or email: studentsupport@lse.ac.uk
FEES OFFICE Drop-ins available Monday to Friday during term time, 2–3pm, at the Old Building Reception FINANCIAL SUPPORT OFFICE Responsible for providing advice on scholarships, awards and emergency funding Drop-ins available Monday to Friday during term time, 1–2pm, at the Old Building Reception OFF-CAMPUS SUPPORT SCHEME Support for getting to know campus for those who don’t live in LSE Halls; this is a mentoring initiative that you can access via LSE for You: www.lsesu.com/lseforyou
LSE CAREERS For specific disability and careers advice, contact Viki Chinn, Careers Consultant: v.e.chinn@lse.ac.uk
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ACADEMIC ADVISERS
STUDENT COUNSELLING SERVICE Provides a number of groups and workshops, including a daily drop-in session from 3pm; this can be booked from 2:45pm. To access these, visit: www.lse.ac.uk/counselling Or email: studentcounselling@lse.ac.uk DISABILITY AND WELL-BEING SERVICE Provides advice and support to disabled students, makes Individual Student Support Agreements, and helps with individual examination arrangements
Set up a meeting with your Academic Adviser on anything you are struggling with, whether that’s academic or personal issues. They are there to listen and help you.
Find out more: www.lse.ac.uk/disability
PEER SUPPORTERS
MEDITATION Group meditation: Wednesdays and Fridays, 12–1pm, LSE Faith Centre, Saw Swee Hock Student Centre
These are 22 students who provide confidential advice as Peer Supporters (including two taught postgraduate students and two PhD students), both in LSE residences and across the whole of the campus. You can contact them via: www.facebook.com/LsePeerSupport or tlc.peer.support@lse.ac.uk
To get in touch, email: disability-dyslexia@lse.ac.uk
Postgraduate students only: Tuesdays, 12–1pm, LSE Faith Centre, Saw Swee Hock Student Centre
WELLBEING, ADVICE AND SUPPORT NETWORK
Provides IT-based disability advice. Contact Sebastiaan Eldritch-Boersen: s.r.eldritch-boersen@lse.ac.uk
LSE HALLS OF RESIDENCE WARDENS You can contact your warden by checking your hall web page at: www.lse.ac.uk/intranet /students/currentHallResidents
LSE FAITH CENTRE Drop in to the LSE Faith Centre or, to join the mentor group, email Revd Dr James Walters, Chaplain to the School: j.walters@lse.ac.uk
LSESU ADVICE SERVICE
LSESU SABBATICAL OFFICERS
The LSESU Advice Service is independent from the School and can offer free and confidential support on academic issues, housing matters, and the LSESU hardship funds. If we can’t help you, we’ll make sure you get to the people who can.
Your Sabbatical Officers are students who campaign and represent you full-time. They are paid and work for a year on the issues you care about. If you want to find out more about what they're doing, get in touch:
Drop-ins: Students’ Union Reception, 3rd Floor, Saw Swee Hock Student Centre Reception, between 11am and 1pm, Monday to Friday. Or book an appointment in advance by contacting 020 7955 7158 or emailing: su.advice@lse.ac.uk
Nona Buckley-Irvine, General Secretary: su.generalsecretary@lse.ac.uk Katie Budd, Activities and Development Officer: su.activitiesdevelopment@lse.ac.uk Aysha Fekaiki, Community and Welfare Officer: su.communitywelfare@lse.ac.uk Jon Foster, Education Officer: su.education@lse.ac.uk Postgraduate Students’ Officer (to be elected in Michaelmas Term): su.postgrad@lse.ac.uk
LSESU PART-TIME OFFICERS Your Part-time Officers are here to campaign on your behalf, represent you, listen and point you in the right direction within their specific remits. You can find them here: www.lsesu.com/yourunion/yourreps
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FIND OUT MORE AT LSESU.COM
De-stress fest: What’s happening WEEK 1
Thursday 28th April
TIME
5-6pm
WEEK 3
WEEK 4
WEEK 5
WEEK 6
WEEK 7
LOCATION
Wellbeing day 11am-3pm
3-4pm
WEEK 2
ACTIVITIES
Coffee, tea and cake with counselling services and Wellbeing Project
Library Plaza
Relieving stress of PhD thesis
PhD Academy
Exam nutrition workshop
3rd floor meeting room
Friday 29th April
All day
Board games
First floor promo
Tuesday 3rd May
12-3pm
Chair massage and smoothies
6th floor - Bao Yang
12:40-1pm
Meditation with Inner Space
Faith Centre
Thursday 5th May
12-2pm
Dodgeball
Badminton court
Tuesday 10th May
12:40-1pm
Meditation with Inner Space
Faith Centre
2-3pm
Yoga with Dagmar
Lincoln’s Inn Fields
Thursday 12th May
11am – 3pm
Table tennis and Smoothie Bike
Outside Library
Tuesday 17th May
12:40-1pm
Meditation sessions
Faith Centre
Thursday 19th May
12-5pm
Crafternoon
6th floor - Bao Yang
Tuesday 24th May
12:40-1pm
Meditation sessions
Faith Centre
Thursday 26th May
11am-1pm
Study Brunch
6th floor studio
TBC*
Puppies petting zoo
Outside Saw Swee
6:30-9:30pm
Movie night
6th floor studio
Tuesday 31st May
12:40-1pm
Meditation sessions
Faith Centre
Wednesday 1st June
5.30-8:30pm
Movie night
6th floor studio
Monday 6thJune
6-8:30pm
Terrace garden party
6th floor cafe and terrace
Tuesday 7th June
12:40-1pm
Meditation sessions
Faith Centre
Friday 10th June
5.30-8:30pm
Movie night
6th floor studio
* Check out lsesu.com for more details and other events
DATE
facebook.com/lsesu @lsesu @lsesu lsesu.tumblr.com
LSESU.COM