We have had many students here who have had amanuensis, a PC and 200%
extra time plus rest breaks and 'at the other end' just a PC or 10%
extra time.
The arrangements need to take into account the student's abilities and
needs and the type of exam. Typing speed is like writing speed, some
people are faster than others. In relation to this it is sensible to
establish some sort of normal range, perhaps 25 to 30 wpm, and factor
that in.
However, I think you are fighting a losing battle and a new approach is
needed. You are currently fighting prejudice, 'ignorance' and vague
notions of fairness that, as you have found, vary from individul to
individual. It is quite unreasonable that you should have to
individually take on every member of staff yourself. The ideal
situation would be to establish a group which might include the 'exams
officer', disabilities officer and involves turors to consider each case
on its merits. This needs to be recognised by the institution as THE
authority in exam arrangements.
We set aside a period of 2 to 3 days each year for meetings like this
and staff or students apply for extra time, all sides are represented
and collective expertise decides the arrangements.
The important factor here is that the group should have credibility with
the teaching staff and students.
I would suggest going to 'the top' explain the current difficulties and
try to get approval for establishing a group that decides such
arrangements.
Mick Trott
KATE DRESSER wrote:
>
> ------
> Please could list members let me know if their institutions are
> following national guidelines and 'allowing' extra time in addition to
> amanuensis/PC for students with dyslexia (and indeed for other
> disabilities). I am fighting a losing battle here where the perception
> is that the use of a PC confers an unfair advantage - all students
> have supersonic typing speeds and therefore should not be allowed
> extra time as well.
> Believe me I have rehearsed all the arguments re inclusion,
> continuity of provision,etc. ad nauseam in one tediously drafted
> memo after another. What I require now comrades is raw data.
> Please help.
>
> Kate Dresser
> Dyslexia Resource Centre
> Cardiff University
> ------- End of forwarded message -------
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