LSE IQ cover image

Do algorithms have too much power?

LSE IQ

CHAPTER

The a-Level Algorithm

In March 2020, it was announced that summer exams were to be cancelled due to the pandemic. Cue many jubilant teenagers who thought they would be awarded predicted grades instead. Then off-quail, the exams regulator came up with an algorithm which automatically prescribed what grades students would get. It was designed to counteract the inevitable grade inflation from teacher-assess grades. The end result, 39% of students received lower grades than expected,. After a huge public backlash, the exam regulator admitted fault and reverted to teacher-ass assess grades. Boris Johnson even apologized to students.

00:00
Transcript
Play full episode

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner