Some Knew More Of What To Expect

(By the Editor)

Some Political Science I students knew mcre than others about what to expect in the theory exam last year.

The following note was sent with all Political Science i examination results:—

Some irregularities, not sufficiently serious to require the re-sitting of the paper, but nevertheless calling for some corrective action, may have occurred in the examination in Political Science I, paper (a). By direction of the Vice-Chancellor, the following procedure was therefore adopted: (i) all the scripts in both papers in Political Science I were in the first instance marked on the normal basis; (ii) the scripts in paper (a) of those candidates who on this marking did not attain the pass standard in the subject were then reconsidered by Professor Brookes in the light of the candidates' class records and in favour of these candidates special weight was given to class work: (iii) the for these candidates was determined on this reconsideration.

L. O. Desborough, Registrar.

A student who experienced the irregularities was Kevin Martin.

He said a former lecturer, Mr Tony Ashenden, had told some students, including himself, to expect four questions on liberalism and democracy.

The Head of the School of Political Science, Prof. R. H. Brookes, said that "just how much information is given prior to exams is a matter of judgement for the individual members of staff."

There was no question of the lecturer concerned being disciplined.

Corrective action was taken in this case not because of any breach of security, but because of student dissatisfaction.

Prof. Brookes suggested that the situation raised the question of whether it should become the University's policy that information on the content of exams be given only in lectures when all students sitting are present.