This year, students took all AP exams online; for many students, this was a big change. In the past, most AP exams were on paper, with students filling in scantrons. Now, students had to log in from their laptops, deal with internet issues, and type their answers instead of writing them by hand.
Some students liked the new format. Typing was faster for those who are good at typing, and the digital timer on the screen helped them manage their time better.
“I actually liked the online test. Typing is quicker for me, and I liked being able to see the countdown on the screen, which made me feel more organized,” said Connor Lilley, sophomore.
However, not everyone was happy about the change. Some students ran into serious technical problems, like being unable to even start the test on the day it was scheduled.
“I couldn’t even take my exam because the College Board system wouldn’t let anyone join. I was not even able to log in. It was very frustrating and stressful. With paper, that wouldn’t have happened,” said Kendall Meining, sophomore.
Paper tests also allow students to write, draw diagrams, and go back to questions easily. For many, that feels more natural and less stressful.
“I really wish it were on paper. I feel like it would have been easier to annotate and read everything better,” said Meining.
The switch to online AP exams had both good and bad sides. Some students liked how fast and organized it was, but others had technical problems and missed using paper. In the future, it’s important to find a way that works well for everyone.
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