Keywords

examination wrapper, metacognition, nursing students, self-evaluation, test-taking skill

 

Authors

  1. Butzlaff, Alice PhD, RN
  2. Gaylle, Debrayh EdD, RN
  3. O'Leary Kelley, Colleen PhD, RN

Abstract

Examination wrappers are a self-evaluation tool that uses metacognition to help students reflect on test performance. After examinations, rather than focus on points earned, students learn to self-identify study strategies and recognize methods of test preparation. The purpose of the study was to determine if the use of an examination wrapper after each test would encourage students to self-evaluate performance and adjust study strategies. A total of 120 undergraduate nursing students completed self-evaluations after each examination, which were analyzed using content analysis. Three general patterns emerged from student self-evaluation: effective and ineffective study strategies, understanding versus memorization of content, and nurse educator assistance.