Scribe Bank: Making exam support accessible for students with disabilities

Students with disabilities do need help during exams. Especially when they cannot write on their own. An exam scribe writes their answers as they dictate them. Save The Quest's Scribe Bank connects students who need this support. This is done with the support of volunteers who can help.

What is an exam scribe?

An exam scribe writes a student's answers during an exam. This is when a student cannot write on their own. This could be because of disability or functional limitation.

The student gives the answers, and the scribe writes them down. The scribe must follow the student's instructions. The rules of the examination authority are strictly followed.

Why do students need a scribe for an exam?

A student may need a scribe for an exam when a disability affects their ability to read or write.

Finding someone who can help is not always easy. Students can also depend on their friends, classmates, or other contacts. These arrangements can become difficult if the person is unavailable. It also becomes difficult when the person does not understand the student's needs.

STQ supports visually impaired students through scribes and tutors. We have provided this support at different universities and institutes. Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and The National Association for the Blind, to name a few.

Why finding an exam scribe can be difficult

Finding an exam scribe at the last minute can put extra pressure on a student. The scribe must be available for the exam and understand the assignment. They should communicate clearly with the student and arrive on time.

STQ's Scribe Bank provides a structured way to connect students with volunteers. This helps students arrange exam support. Without having to rely only on personal contacts.

How a Scribe Bank improves examination coordination

A Scribe Bank gives students and volunteers a structured way to arrange exam support.

STQ's Scribe Bank Initiative uses a digital platform for different action items. This can be needed for beneficiary and volunteer registration, matching, onboarding, eligibility processes, and exam day coordination.

This system helps organize the information needed for an assignment before the examination. It also gives volunteers a way to register. They can register their availability and respond to students who need support.

STQ's current programme implementation includes Punjab. Institutional partnerships and volunteer mobilisation support the initiative.