The Editor, Sir:

I refer to K. Brown's letter in The Gleaner of August 26, regarding his/her inability to register online and access on a timely basis the examination results for the course GT66B - Qualitative Research Methods, offered at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona.

Without knowing the specifics of the case, it is difficult to determine the reasons for the student's inability to register online. The normal registration process for graduate students involves going online and accessing the registration page through the Students' Administration System.

Difficulties

Difficulties may arise if there is a problem with an individual situation, for example, an outstanding financial balance, or there may be an unresolved registration issue from the previous academic year.

With reference to the specific course mentioned in the letter, the pass/fail list has been up on the Examinations Notice Board at the Department of Government since August 15, 2008. The student should, therefore, have no difficulty in determining whether he/she has passed the course.

However, individual marks/ grades have not been officially determined. GT66B is a large graduate course and involves some five assessments.

Scripts are marked by a first examiner, then a second marker and in many instances are also sent to an external examiner. Given the subject matter and the processes involved, it is virtually impossible to thoroughly mark all scripts within one month and ensure quality. As well, students asked for, and were allowed extra time, to submit the final piece of coursework.

Welfare of students

The UWI is very concerned about the welfare of its students. Having seen the letter, efforts were immediately made to identify and contact the student. Unfortunately, we have been unable to locate a postgraduate registration applicable to the course for anyone with the name K. Brown.

I, therefore, invite the student to contact the Office of Graduate Studies and Research by telephone at 935-8263/935-8708 or email postgrad@uwimona.edu.jm, or the Student Records Unit at 935-8856, or email registry@uwimona.edu.jm, to discuss his/her particular situation.

I am, etc.,

CARROLL EDWARDS

Public Relations Officer

UWI