BLIND MARKING Meaning and
Definition
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Blind marking refers to a assessment method widely utilized in educational and examination settings, aimed at enhancing fairness and impartiality. It involves the evaluation of student performance without the knowledge of their identity or any identifying information, so as to prevent any bias or favoritism in the marking process.
In blind marking, the examiners or markers are unaware of the personal details, such as the name, gender, race, or any other characteristic, of the individuals whose work they are assessing. The primary purpose of blind marking is to encourage objectivity and ensure that students are evaluated solely on the basis of the quality of their work, without any predetermined prejudices or preconceived notions.
This assessment method is often utilized in scenarios where the identity of the student could potentially impact the fairness of the evaluation process, such as in standardized tests, final examinations, or when marking assignments with potential subjective grading aspects. It helps to create a level playing field for all students, promoting equal opportunities and reducing the possibility of discrimination.
Blind marking not only benefits the students but also the markers themselves, as it protects them from any subconscious biases and allows them to focus solely on the evaluation of the academic content. By removing any potential influence related to the student's background or reputation, blind marking ensures an objective and fair assessment, contributing to the integrity and credibility of the education system.
Etymology of BLIND MARKING
The word "blind marking" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two common English words.
The word "blind" comes from the Old English word "blind" which means "unable to see, sightless". It has its roots in Germanic languages and is also related to similar words in other Indo-European languages.
The word "marking" comes from the verb "mark", which means "to make a visible impression or sign on something". It derives from the Old English word "mearcian" and is also related to words like "mark", "marker", and "remark".
Therefore, the term "blind marking" is a compound term that suggests the process of marking or assessing something without reference to the identity of the person involved, typically used in educational or examination contexts where anonymity is desired.
