The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination is a crucial step for students in Nigeria seeking admission into tertiary institutions.
However, there are several myths surrounding the JAMB UTME that can hinder students’ performance.
List of 5 Common JAMB Myths That Hinder JAMB Candidates Every Year
In this article, we aim to dispel these myths and provide clarity to help students approach the examination with confidence and the right mindset.
Myth 1:
It is impossible to score above 300 in JAMB. The truth is that scoring above 300 in JAMB is indeed possible.
Many candidates have achieved this feat in the past, proving that it is achievable with the right mindset and consistent effort.
A positive growth mindset, combined with dedicated preparation, can yield remarkable results.
Myth 2:
It is not possible to pass JAMB without engaging in exam malpractice.
Contrary to popular belief, passing JAMB without resorting to exam malpractice is not only possible but also highly encouraged.
Every year, numerous candidates successfully pass the exam through honest means. Engaging in malpractice not only jeopardizes your future but also carries severe consequences, including legal actions.
JAMB has strict measures in place to prevent cheating, such as CCTV cameras in examination centers. It is best to focus on studying and doing your best rather than seeking shortcuts.
Myth 3:
You can’t “make it in life” if you don’t study Law, Medicine, Accounting, Engineering, or other “professional” courses.
While courses like Law, Medicine, and Engineering have traditionally been highly sought after, the job market is dynamic and constantly evolving.
The world needs professionals in various fields, and there are ample opportunities beyond the traditional “professional” courses.
Technology advancements, changing industries, and emerging sectors offer new and exciting career prospects. By focusing on developing valuable skills and expertise, regardless of the chosen field, you can create a successful path for yourself.
Myth 4:
JAMB regulates students’ scores to decrease the number of students seeking admission into federal universities.
This myth suggests that JAMB intentionally lowers students’ scores to limit admissions into federal universities.
However, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. The aim of controlling admission traffic is typically achieved through the use of cut-off marks, and JAMB’s primary objective is to provide a fair and standardized evaluation system for all candidates.
Myth 5:
JAMB uses negative marking strategy in scoring candidates. Negative marking, a strategy deducting marks for incorrect answers, is not employed by JAMB.
Believing in this myth may lead students to leave questions unanswered out of fear of losing marks.
However, the only consequence of leaving a question blank is that you won’t receive any credit for it. It is advisable to attempt all questions to maximize your chances of gaining marks.
FAQs
What are some effective strategies to improve memory retention?
There are several powerful ways to commit information to memory, including:
- Spaced Repetition: Revisit information at increasing intervals to reinforce it in your long-term memory.
- Active Recall: Test yourself on the material rather than passively reviewing notes, which strengthens memory connections.
- Visualization: Create mental images or use diagrams to help conceptualize and recall information more easily.
How does spaced repetition help in committing information to memory?
Spaced repetition works by taking advantage of the brain’s ability to better retain information when it is revisited over time. The technique involves reviewing material at spaced intervals, allowing the brain to strengthen its memory pathways. This reduces the likelihood of forgetting and makes recall more automatic, especially for complex information.
Why is active recall considered more effective than simply re-reading notes?
Active recall forces the brain to actively engage with the material by retrieving information from memory without directly looking at it. This process strengthens neural connections and improves the ability to retain and recall information. Studies have shown that active recall leads to better long-term retention compared to passive review methods like re-reading or highlighting.
Conclusion
By dispelling these common myths surrounding the JAMB UTME, students can approach the examination with a clear perspective and focused preparation.
Remember, achieving a high score in JAMB is possible with the right mindset, diligent study habits, and ethical practices.
Believe in your abilities, put in the necessary effort, and you can excel in the examination, opening doors to a bright future.
