By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The University of Oklahoma removed an instructor after a student alleged religious discrimination due to a failing grade on a psychology paper. The university’s investigation determined the instructor acted arbitrarily in grading the student’s work. The instructor, however, denies any wrongdoing and is considering legal options. The case became a point of contention in the debate over academic freedom, particularly with conservative groups and officials involved. The university has stated its commitment to academic freedom and the student’s right to an education free from biased evaluation while also removing the assignment from grade calculations.
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The initial issue arose from an assignment in an Oklahoma psychology class focused on lifespan development, where students were asked to analyze an academic study concerning gender norms and their connection to popularity or bullying among middle school students. The assignment’s requirements, including the length of the essay, were clearly outlined.
The student submitted a response that deviated significantly from the assignment’s guidelines. The essay, instead of engaging with the assigned study, presented a religiously-focused argument against multiple genders, describing it as “demonic” and harmful. The instructor, in providing feedback, noted that the essay failed to address the assignment’s questions, contradicted itself, relied on personal ideology over evidence, and was, at times, offensive. The instructor made it clear that the grade was based on the quality of the writing and adherence to the assignment, not on the student’s beliefs.
The instructor gave the student a failing grade for not completing the assignment. The essay itself was widely criticized as poorly written, lacking citations and references, and bearing no resemblance to a college-level paper. Many agree that the essay deserved a failing grade, regardless of its content. The core failure, as many see it, was the student’s failure to answer the question asked in the essay.
However, the instructor who gave the failing grade was removed from teaching. It’s difficult to understand the logic behind this decision. The university’s actions have been widely condemned, with accusations that it prioritized appeasing the student over upholding academic standards. There is a strong feeling that the university is failing to uphold educational integrity.
The situation has sparked outrage, with accusations that the instructor was targeted for being trans. This adds a complex layer, as many feel the university’s decision was influenced by the instructor’s identity and a desire to avoid controversy. The media coverage of this incident has been criticized for not adequately highlighting this aspect, with some feeling the media is going along with this attack.
The university’s response has been seen as a massive failure, potentially damaging its reputation. Critics argue that the school’s response could lead to a decline in academic standards and a chilling effect on instructors who may fear repercussions for grading fairly. Many express concern that the university’s actions may lead to a situation where students can simply claim religious persecution to get favorable grades, undermining the validity of degrees earned from the university.
The implications extend far beyond this single assignment. The case raises serious questions about academic freedom, the role of religious beliefs in education, and the pressures faced by educators in navigating politically charged issues. This event is a signal of the deterioration of academic integrity.
Furthermore, it raises questions about the future. Will those degrees still be worth anything? Is this a school worth studying at? It is likely that this student, and others like her, are planning to sue the university. This action will be very costly and time consuming for the university.
The entire situation has been seen as a huge failure that could lead the university down a dark path. The university’s response has been widely criticized for potentially damaging its reputation and undermining academic standards. Many agree that the university’s response has been a complete disaster.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges facing higher education in today’s world. This university has created a very difficult situation for itself.