Hi everyone,

Hope you are all well.

Just a quick question. My university has asked if any PhD students would like to help out at exam time as invigilators, scribes or readers. I would really like to help out but I'm not really sure what's involved with the scribing or exam reading. Can anyone help?

I'd imagine it's for students with disabilities. Either transcribing their dictated answers or reading out the exam questions for those with vision problems.

Hi Bewildered,

Thanks so much for your reply. I had a feeling this was what it entailed but wanted to double check just incase I had picked up the wrong end of the stick.

(up)

Yes that's what it is. The secretary in my department asked me if I'd like to do this, even though I'm a student with disabilities myself and would have had trouble doing it as a result - had I been sitting an exam I might have needed just this help! But I gather it's a good way of supplementing your income, and is providing valuable support to other students.

Thank you so much for the advice. I'm not sure I'm confident enough just yet to be scribing or reading and although it's great money, I feel I would be more of a hindrance to the student. I have however put my name forward for invigilating, which is offering less money but it's the experience I'm after more than the money itself.

Thanks again folks, you've been a great help (up)

I've done this loads and as long as your English is reasonable (and yours seems much better than reasonable) you're more than capable.

A

I had a scribe during my exams once as I broke my wrist, therefore writing was impossible! I'm sure you'd be great at it. My scribe was lovely and was never bothered when I constantly asked her to scribble things out that I'd just said!

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