As we enter the second week of the examination period, we would like to reassure all students that you will not be penalised for any difficulties you may face in accessing online examinations or other online assignments.
Having closely monitored Moodle activity since teaching resumed remotely in Week 8, we are pleased to report that despite the challenging circumstances we have all experienced this semester, the vast majority of students have been able to complete their assignments and online examinations in good time.
For this reason, and in consultation with the USP Students’ Association via the Learning and Teaching Continuity Team meetings, we are relieved to find that there is no demand for a blanket extension that would carry the assessment period over into your much-needed semester break.
However, we do understand that there may be students who have missed final assessments, through no fault of their own, and for reasons outside of their control. For any students who have struggled with poor connectivity, limited access to devices, or any other challenges relating to COVID-19, we ask that you please follow the usual processes for requesting assignment extensions or Special Examination.
For extension requests, please contact your Course Coordinator in the first instance, or your Head of School or Academic Unit. If you feel that your request has not been considered fairly, you are asked to please follow the University’s Student Grievance Policy and Procedures, which are explained here.
Special Examination requests should be submitted directly to Student Administrative Services, at helpdesk(at)student.usp.ac.fj. The form can be accessed here. This semester, the B-grade coursework requirement for Special Examination has been waived, and students only need a 40% coursework grade to be eligible for Special Examination. If you have any questions about this process, please email the helpdesk, or call the USP Call Centre on +679 323 1444, or 1568 (toll free from any Digicel, Vodafone or Telecom Fiji phone).
For the requests for extensions to assessments, closing date is Friday, 16th July 2021 and for special examination applications, the closing date is Friday, 23rd July 2021.
Finally, may we please encourage all students to complete the Course Experience Survey (CES) before 16th July. Your feedback is one of the most effective ways of letting us know what has worked well in your courses this semester, and how we can continue to improve next semester. Please just log in to Student Online Services (SOLS) and click on the ‘My Surveys’ tab on the left hand side of the menu, selecting ‘Course Experience Survey’.
In the meantime, we would like to commend you for your hard work and commitment this semester, despite the challenging conditions you have faced. You have done yourselves and your University proud.
Dr Matthew Hayward
Director Education
Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education)