Adjustment

Use of a scribe in an exam. (handwriting or typing). The scribe will write exactly what a student dictates.

Students are expected to dictate the punctuation that they require. Where a scribe is not familiar with a word they may ask the student to tell them how to spell it. (for example the name of a researcher). Students can ask a scribe to delete or move content around when a computer is being used.

If a typist-scribe is recommended the typist should be provided with a computer with a separate screen, so that the student can easily see what is being typed and a separate keyboard. (laptops are not easy to use for either the typist or student). The typist-scribe must be a proficient typist.

Why?

Students may have a physical impairment or motor coordination difficulties that prevent them from writing their exams or using a computer. A scribe will write (or type) what the student wishes to say. This enables the student to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of a topic without being disadvantaged by their writing speed and legibility / inability to write.

Use of a typist scribe is recommended where a student may have difficulty in seeing and processing handwriting.

Examples

• A student with cerebral palsy cannot hand write their answers or use a computer to type their exams so a scribe is provided.
• A student with dyspraxia may find the physical act of writing and forming letters slow and laborious.
• A student with severe dyslexia may find it difficult to express their thoughts in a written form.
• A visually impaired student may find dictating their answers easier or more practical than using assistive software.