NORMAN, Okla. –The University of Oklahoma says it is reviewing concerns from a student who disputed the grade on a class assignment. The student also reported religious discrimination connected to her response.
In a statement Friday, the university said it began “a full review of the situation” immediately after receiving notice from the student and is working to ensure academic fairness throughout the process.
According to OU, college leaders contacted the student the same day they received her letter and remained in contact while a formal grade-appeal process was conducted. The university said the steps taken were meant to ensure the student would not face academic harm from the original graded work.
Instructor placed on leave during review
OU confirmed that the student also filed a discrimination complaint with a university office. OU said the complaint is tied to a reaction paper the student submitted for a class assignment in which she outlined her religious beliefs in response to course material on gender expression and peer relations.
As part of the review, the graduate instructor who graded the assignment has been placed on administrative leave while the complaint is evaluated, and a full-time professor has taken over the course for the remainder of the semester to ensure fairness, OU said.
University reaffirms student rights
OU said its discrimination-review procedures are now in effect and will remain active until the process is complete. The university emphasized that it “remains firmly committed to fairness, respect and protecting every student’s right to express sincerely held religious beliefs.”
