Are Written Computer Science Exams a Fair Measure?

me! asks: "I seem to have this inability to write substantial chunks of code (500+) in exam conditions (for uni). I have been writing code for years for open source and commercial applications, so I know a thing or two. There is just something about exams and code that does not work for me. I find that I need to be sitting in front of a computer to get a problem out, to get in the 'vibe', have you will. I have done exams on computers (closed environment) that involve coding, and it work so much better for me. So what I am asking is...how do people tackle exams that involve solving problems on the fly, on paper, in exams?" I have this exact same problem, and I've never thought written tests were a fair way to measure someone's knowledge of coding. It's fine when you are asking questions about design and structure, but when you need to write code it falls way short. How do you feel about it?

simple

[Anonymous Coward]

do what i did.. drop out of college.. become a "go getter" get a good job like me ($300000+ w/ a ton of benefits) and be happy :-)

college is overrated.. you'll realize sooner or later

Re:simple

[Anonymous Coward]

Why is CmdrTaco posting anonymously now?!

State-Dependent Memory

[RAMMS+EIN]

The explanation for this is a psychological principle called state-dependent memory. People are better at remembering (doing, etc.) things when their minds are in a state similar to the state they learned them in. Since you are used to writing code on a computer, coding on paper doesn't work because you can't get your mind in hack-mode. What I do is I drink huge amounts of beer while programming and do the same thing before I take a test. That adds enough similarity to the situations that the results are similar.

---
Never test for an error condition you don't know how to handle.
-- Steinbach

Re:Writing code (not typing it) is *hard*

[WhaDaYaKnow]

"What's the difference between a bridge and a switch?"--I'm usually merciful and stop them if they start talking layer 3

I agree. It's when the start talking cars and lights turning on and off that you want to pay attention.

(sorry,- I'm in my Friday mood...;-))

Re:Agreed

[PotPieMan]

I think you left out part of your answer:

package dataStructures;

public class FinalExam {
public boolean pass() {
return true;
}

public int grade() {
return 100;
}
}