The Clattering Monster

At least twice each year, for as long back as we can remember, we have sat down at our desk, and begun to think what a great invention the typewriter is, and how useful it would be in an examination room. But nothing has ever come of our notion, and the fact that we repeat it now is not an indication that we really expect the Faculty to consider the matter in January, but merely a nod to the passing of time and an assurance, to those of you who doubt, that there are still some things in this world that can be counted on.

We've tried to point out the advantages: how neat exams will be for readers, and how much more time for writers. We've noted how successfully the system works at other institutions. We've answered objections, pointing out that it is really fairer to let each student choose his preferred way to write an exam than it is to penalize slow pen-pushers by prescribing blue books and ink only. We've even written notes to graders, suggesting that they might form an interested pressure group.

But all to no avail. It's almost as if the University were making a last ditch stand against The Machine knowing all the time that history is on the side of the 47 keys. In any case, you can count on another thought from us sometime around the end of April. Spring should be well under way by then.