UWI Media Release
A revised Grade Point Average (GPA) scheme will be introduced by The University of the West Indies (UWI) from the beginning of the 2014/2015 academic year. Changes to the GPA were approved by the Board for Undergraduate Studies in 2011 and The UWI had announced in September 2013 that these changes would take effect in the academic year 2014/2015.
Under the revised GPA scheme, both the overall manner in which assessment of student performance is described and how the grades are represented on the transcripts of undergraduates have been revised. These are changes to the way in which student performance is reported at The University of the West Indies; they are not changes in the standard of The UWI degree. All new and continuing students across The UWI will be assessed and graded in a manner which is more transparent and in line with international GPA standards.
Revised GPA Grade Bands and Descriptors
GRADE
GRADE POINT
PERCENTAGE RANGE
Grade Definition
Grade Descriptor
A+ 4.3 90-100
Exceptional
Demonstrates exceptional performance and achievement in all aspects of the course. Exceptional application of theoretical and technical knowledge that demonstrates achievement of the learning outcomes. Goes beyond the material in the course and displays exceptional aptitude in solving complex issues identified. Achieves the highest level of critical, compelling, coherent and concise argument or solutions within the course.
A 4 80-89
Outstanding
Demonstrates outstanding integration of a full range of appropriate principles, theories, evidence and techniques. Displays innovative and/or insightful responses. Goes beyond the material with outstanding conceptualization which is original, innovative and/or insightful. Applies outstanding critical thinking skills.
A- 3.7 75-79
Excellent
Demonstrates excellent breadth of knowledge, skills and competencies and presents these in appropriate forms using a wide range of resources. Demonstrates excellent evidence of original thought, strong analytical and critical abilities; excellent organizational, rhetorical and presentational skills.
B+ 3.3 70-74
Very Good
Demonstrates evidence of very good critical and analytical thinking in most aspects of the course. Very good knowledge that is comprehensive, accurate and relevant. Very good insight into the material and very good use of a range of appropriate resources. Consistently applies very good theoretical and technical knowledge to achieve the desired learning outcomes.
B 3 65-69
Good
Demonstrates good knowledge, rhetorical and organizational skills. Good insight into the material and a good use of a range of appropriate resources. Good integration of a range of principles, techniques, theories and evidence.
B- 2.7 60-64
Satisfactory
Displays satisfactory evidence of the application of theoretical and technical knowledge to achieve the desired learning outcomes. Demonstrates sound organisational and rhetorical skills.
C+ 2.3 55-59
Fair
Demonstrates fair breadth and depth of knowledge of main components of the subject. Fair evidence of being able to assemble some of the appropriate principles, theories, evidence and techniques and to apply some critical thinking.
C 2 50-54
Acceptable
Demonstrates acceptable application of theoretical and technical knowledge to achieve the minimum learning outcomes required in the course. Displays acceptable evidence of critical thinking and the ability to link theory to application.
F1 1.7 45-49
Unsatisfactory
Demonstrates unsatisfactory application of theoretical and technical knowledge and understanding of the subject. Displays unsatisfactory ability to put theory into practice; weak theoretical and reflective insight. Unsatisfactory critical thinking, organizational and rhetorical skills.
F2 1.3 40-44
Weak
Weak overall performance with very limited knowledge and understanding of the subject. Little evidence of theoretical and reflective insights. Weak organizational and rhetorical skills.
F3 0 0-39
Poor
Overall poor or minimal evidence of knowledge and understanding of the subject. Displays little ability to put theory into practice; lacks theoretical and reflective insights. Incomplete breadth and depth of knowledge on substantive elements of the subject. Little or no evidence of critical engagement with the material. Responses are affected by irrelevant sources of information, poor organizational and rhetorical skills.
The changes described above will change the way in which the performance of students is represented on their transcripts. However, IT WILL NOT CHANGE THE STANDARD OF THE UWI DEGREE.
FURTHER INFORMATION
You can also ask the Examinations Section on your Campus.
Office of the Board for Undergraduate Studies
Wednesday, 14 May 2014