On 12/04/2021 10:03, Steve Walker wrote:
On 12/04/2021 09:44, wrote:
Â*From "The Week":
University tutors are being told not to mark down work for spelling
mistakes because insisting on correct English could be seen as
€śhomogenous north European, white, male, elite€ť. The Times says
several institutions are adopting €śinclusive assessments€ť and Hull
University says it will €śchallenge the status quo€ť by dropping the
requirement for a high level of written and spoken English.
I have long thought it wrong to mark down for spelling and grammar,
except in languages. Exams/assessments are for candidates to demonstrate
a clear understanding and ability in their chosen subjects, not to test
their knowledge of a different subject. Why should someone be marked
down in Physics, for poor spelling, when they are showing an excellent
grasp of the subject?
The pretty well universal requirement for GCSE English Language should
ensure that students and workers can spell use grammar reasonably
correctly (if they make the effort) and should not be tested during
other exams.
I wonder if Hull and other universities have consulted potential
employers here and abroad. With English now the language of business as
well as science graduates from Hull might be at a disadvantage in the
jobs market compared with those from China, India etc who can spell and
write clearly.
--
Robin
reply-to address is (intended to be) valid