In high-stakes testing, where stress levels peak, clear communication is essential. That’s why we have the News Section in Cirrus: Before test-takers even log in, they’re greeted by this hidden gem that ensures they have all the information they need from the get-go.
The News Section: Minor Feature, Major Benefits
The News Section serves as a safety net, ensuring that vital messages aren’t buried in inboxes or missed altogether. It offers a direct, highly visible channel for communication that reaches test-takers exactly when and where they need it, on the login page. Whether it’s reminders about upcoming exams, last-minute venue changes, or special instructions for assessment day, you can ensure that candidates are focused and prepared from the moment they sign in.
For example, imagine a sudden venue change due to unforeseen circumstances. Instead of scrambling to notify every candidate via email, you can post the update directly to the News Section. This guarantees that test-takers will see the new location as soon as they access the platform, eliminating the risk of confusion on exam day.
Or consider an online proctored exam where candidates need to follow specific setup instructions. Rather than dealing with a flood of support requests on the day of the exam, you can use the News Section to provide clear, step-by-step guidelines. This proactive approach ensures that candidates are prepared well in advance, reducing stress and technical issues.
During peak exam seasons, keeping track of deadlines can be another source of anxiety for both candidates and administrators. The News Section allows you to post countdowns, reminders, and links to resources, ensuring that test-takers stay on top of key dates and requirements, without relying solely on scattered emails or announcements.
Setting up and managing the News Section
Excited to start using the News Section? Setting it up is simple and intuitive:
- Start by navigating to your admin panel and selecting Admin > Overview > News Management. This is your hub for creating, scheduling, and managing all your announcements.
- Next, craft your message. Share key information like exam dates, instructions, or updates, using clear and concise language. Since this is the first thing candidates see, make every word count.
- Once your message is ready, hit publish. The News Section will instantly reflect your updates on the login page, ensuring test-takers have the latest information as soon as they sign in.
Best practices for using the News Section
To make the most of the News Section, it’s important to use it strategically. Here are some best practices to ensure your messages are effective and impactful:
- Focus on clarity. Keep your messages concise and to the point. Test-takers are likely under pressure, so delivering information in a clear, easily digestible format will help them absorb it quickly.
- Be consistent. Regularly update the News Section with relevant information. Whether it’s exam deadlines, new instructions, or venue changes, maintaining up-to-date posts ensures test-takers stay informed at every step of the process.
- Prioritise critical updates. While it’s tempting to fill the News Section with every bit of information, focus on what’s most important. Highlight essential details like deadlines, exam requirements, and any last-minute changes to avoid overwhelming your test-takers with less critical information.
By following these best practices, the News Section will continue to be a valuable tool for keeping your test-takers informed, engaged, and ready for success.
Though it may seem like a small feature, the News Section delivers significant impact in ensuring clear communication between administrators and test-takers. In high-stakes assessments, where stress and last-minute changes can cause confusion, the News Section helps keep everyone aligned. By delivering timely, relevant updates directly on the login page, you ensure that test-takers remain focused and prepared—giving them the best chance to perform at their highest level.
Any questions? Please reach out to your Cirrus customer success team!
