|
Reply from ministry to SPARK (11 June 2002)
Dear Bella
Sorry I was not able to revert earlier- I had meant to call you, but hadbeen very tied up. I appreciate your emailing me to raise your concern about the matter.
I would like to explain that the annotation of examination certificateshascome about only after considerable deliberations, and that MOE is adoptingthis practice to be in line with international testing agencies. Theannotation of examination certifciates is an accepted practice amonginternational testing agencies such as the the Cambridge Syndicate and theEducational Testing Services. It is basically to indicate that acandidatehad taken the examination under 'non-standard' conditions, that is, thecandidate was given special arrangements (eg extra time, braille QP etc).
Two annotation symbols will be used, accompanied with explanatorystatements. The statements will appear on the reverse side of thecertificates:
- Exemption Symbol
'The candidate was exempted from satisfying the full range ofassessment objectives in this subject. Details may be obtained fromtheExaminations Division,Ministry of Education, Singapore.'
- Special Arrangement Symbol
'The candidate sat the subject under special arrangement. Detailsmaybe obtained from the Examinations Division, Ministry of Education,Singapore.'
The certificate will only indicate that a candidate received specialarrangements or special considerations. Only the details on the type ofspecial arrangement would be released (eg extra time etc). MOE would notdisclose any information on the pupil's medical condition or disabilities.Candidates who receive special arrangements or special considerations willnot be disadvantaged in terms of posting to the next higher level ofeducation (secondary, JC, university).
I hope the above helps to clarify. Please be assured that the annotationis not intended to discriminate against pupils with learning disabilitiesor difficulties.
Best regards,
Ho Peng
|
