Academic Testing Services Surveys Students to Help Improve Testing Experience

Utah State University Academic Testing Services is looking to hear from students as the center considers new desks on the Logan campus. To accommodate tests that require scratch paper or tests that require both paper and computer combinations, the testing center is surveying students to ask their opinions on desk options. The new desk movement was prompted by MyVoice feedback sent to the USU Student Association.

“It is really cool that we have this opportunity to potentially change the testing center for the better,” said Kaitlin Rodgers, Academic Testing Center coordinator. “We have gotten a lot of complaints about our currents desks, so we are hoping to improve.”

Students can come into the testing center and complete the survey, which is now open and closes June 23. Options for desks, featuring the current desks as well as new options, are on display at the testing center. These displays are outfitted with different types of testing materials, demonstrating the desk space provided by each option.

“I have sat in the potential new desk, and it is way more comfortable,” said Theresa Botchway, Academic Testing Center proctor and a USU student who regularly uses the center. “I can fit a lot more on the desk, instead of having to have supplies on the ground like scratch paper and needing to bend down to get it. I am also tall, and both of my legs fit under the new desk!”

Students are asked to consider that larger desks in the testing center would also mean smaller capacity inside the center. This could mean longer wait times for testing. Students are encouraged to examine which they value more: shorter lines or more space to work with potential longer wait times during peak hours.

“I never thought I would be so passionate about desks,” said Brelyn Benson, Academic Testing Center proctor. “The more people that come in to take the survey, the better chance we can get new desks that will help improve the tester’s experience. When your desk is uncomfortable, it is hard to focus on your test because you are so focused on how uncomfortable your desk is.”

Students are encouraged to stop by the testing center before June 23 to complete the survey and have their voice heard.