Why are testing lines so long? Sometimes they stretch out of the building and out of the quad.

The single line at the Testing Center sometimes (but infrequently) can extend out the north door of the HGB.  This potentially gives the impression that student wait times are very long.  During these infrequent occurrences we often poll students as they receive their exams and ask them how long they have been waiting in line.

When we are able to, we re-route the line to the sidewalks closest to the HGB building. This helps us know how long the line is and better communicate with students who are waiting.

What is the average wait time for students?

Typically, wait time for students to obtain their exams is between less-than-one-minute to five minutes. At full capacity of work stations we can admit between six and fifteen students per minute into the Testing Center. During times when the line has been the longest, students generally report waiting less than 45 minutes.

When are wait-times the longest?

If a long line occurs, it is generally during afternoon hours, from1:00pm until about 6:00pm when it tapers down as closing time approaches.

What are the reasons for long lines?

Reasons for a longer line include a combination of factors. One major factor is high-enrollment classes that have average exams times longer than regular class times (50—60 minutes). Students who take longer than regular class times can dramatically slow down the in-and-out flow of test takers.

Another factor contributing to a long line is when a larger-than-expected number of students choose to take an exam late in its period of availability. This can be exacerbated when the exam is designed to take longer than 50—60 minutes.

What is the Testing Center doing to reduce wait times and maximize the efficiency of its space?

The Academic Assessment manager works with faculty members who are giving very long exams. He helps them review data that identifies questions that provide similar information to the faculty member about the knowledge of the students. This information allows exams to be shorter while still providing faculty and students with adequate information about their knowledge of the subject material.

In addition, the Operations Supervisor regularly opens designated areas in the HGB to overflow testing.  As we increase our space, more students will be able to be seated during high-traffic hours.