Fairness in assessment

What this policy covers

Fairness in assessment is the set of principles ensuring that all grading, testing and evaluation methods are consistent and unbiased. It applies to every student, faculty member and staff member at Wrenford Polytechnic. The goal is to make sure that every learner is measured against the same standards, that feedback is clear, and that no student is put at an unfair disadvantage during an assignment, lab practical, exam or co-op evaluation.

How we keep assessment fair

Faculty use clear rubrics and marking guides that are shared with you before you begin an assignment. When a course has multiple sections, the instructor leads a common marking session so that every student is graded the same way. If your program uses practical exams or shop assessments, the evaluation checklist is posted in the course outline and in myWrenford.

We also ensure that accessibility needs are met. If you have an approved accommodation through Accessibility Services, your instructor will apply it to tests, quizzes and timed assignments without you having to explain your situation again. You can review your approved accommodations in myWrenford or on the Accessibility accommodations page.

What to do if you have a concern

If you believe a grade was not calculated correctly, an assessment was not delivered as outlined in the course outline, or there was a bias issue, follow these steps:

  1. Speak with your instructor. Request a meeting or send an email to discuss the specific assessment. You must raise the issue within ten business days of the grade being posted in myWrenford.
  2. Review the course outline. Check the evaluation section to see how the assessment was weighted and what the rubric required. Bring a copy of your marked work and the rubric to your conversation.
  3. Escalate to the department chair. If the issue is not resolved with the instructor, you may request a review by the department chair. Submit a brief written summary of the concern and any supporting documents.
  4. File an academic appeal. If the matter remains unresolved, you can move to the formal academic appeal process. An academic appeal is only considered on grounds of procedural unfairness, bias, or new evidence not available during the original assessment. There is no fee to file an academic appeal. You can find the full procedure on the Academic appeal process page.

Important dates and deadlines

Grades are posted in myWrenford at the end of each term. You have ten business days from the date the grade is posted to raise a fairness concern with your instructor. If you need an extension due to a documented medical or personal emergency, contact the Registrar's Office to request an extension.

Contact and support

For questions about how assessments are designed or how to access your course rubrics, reach out to the Registrar's Office. They can direct you to the right department chair or academic coordinator.

Phone: 519-555-0172
Email: [email protected]
Office: Hollis Hall, Benchlands Campus

If you need help preparing your written concern or want to understand your options, you can book a confidential appointment with Counselling & Wellness or visit Learning Commons & Tutoring for academic support.

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