18-03-2016, 11:35 AM
My answers are:
1) I believe many sit the exam far too early and do not always understand the nuances for answering M1 and M7 versus the more pure signalling or telecomms modules. Two years in the industry with training is the minimum I would suggest and a lot longer for some people if the work/training isn't overly relevant to the exam.
2) Personal ambition and to aid application for full membership. The technical modules still are not really relevant to my role, M1/7 certainly are.
3) This is subjective but with the changes to participating in the exam it may be a moot point. My view is some people attempt the exam too quickly, don't understand that it requires a demonstration of the underlying principles and are disappointed by not passing. Maybe, one suggestion is copies of the candidates paper being made available so the candidate could post on here or ask other experienced people to peer review their attempt. Electronic copies have little cost to create/distribute.
I will add, the exam is hard, it is meant to be. As PJW states, there are people here willing to read and provide feedback... take advantage and also of the Study Days. Like any exam, it takes practice and hard work to pass it. The studying should also help your day job and understanding of the bigger railway picture.
Jerry
1) I believe many sit the exam far too early and do not always understand the nuances for answering M1 and M7 versus the more pure signalling or telecomms modules. Two years in the industry with training is the minimum I would suggest and a lot longer for some people if the work/training isn't overly relevant to the exam.
2) Personal ambition and to aid application for full membership. The technical modules still are not really relevant to my role, M1/7 certainly are.
3) This is subjective but with the changes to participating in the exam it may be a moot point. My view is some people attempt the exam too quickly, don't understand that it requires a demonstration of the underlying principles and are disappointed by not passing. Maybe, one suggestion is copies of the candidates paper being made available so the candidate could post on here or ask other experienced people to peer review their attempt. Electronic copies have little cost to create/distribute.
I will add, the exam is hard, it is meant to be. As PJW states, there are people here willing to read and provide feedback... take advantage and also of the Study Days. Like any exam, it takes practice and hard work to pass it. The studying should also help your day job and understanding of the bigger railway picture.
Jerry
Le coureur