Should All Schools Introduce Assistance Animals for Exams?

We asked members a hypothetical question: Should all schools introduce assistance animals for exams? Here’s one response.

Assistance animals may help individuals reach their full potential, but we may need to think things through before making it mandatory for all schools to allow during exams.

It’s been found that people who struggle physically or mentally in their day-to-day activities find the use of assistance animals beneficial to overcoming their anxieties.

However, assistance animals, namely dogs, being allowed in all schools is just not practical. The amount of time and money it would take to train the increase in demand for these animals would be too much. (At an estimated $US35,000 and two years to train just one these dogs, I hope schools have cleared their schedule and have an open wallet.)

Despite the training supply-and-demand issue, there’s also the fact that some schools may not be able to accommodate these dogs in exams. Assuming the dog is not a distraction—either through barking or relieving themselves during the exam—schools would have to ensure teachers are properly trained to handle outbursts from the animals.

To clear up any conflicts of interest, I have a phobia of dogs, which isn’t too common, but I know others have the same fear. Would having dogs present during exams not inhibit the capacity of these students to perform?

As a viable alternative, I suggest schools offer different rooms—or different exam times—for the students who struggle during exams where these special conditions can be enforced, and once again, only if the schools are able to provide that environment.

I’m quite comfortable with what my school currently does, which is set up a petting zoo during exam week where students can pet farm animals to reduce any stress and anxiety before and after their exam. An alternative to this where the assistance animals are present is also a good idea.

Although I could never fully comprehend the extreme levels of stress some students experience at exam period, I empathise with their situation and hope we can move in a direction that is practical and sustainable for all students to achieve their best.

Congratulations to Massi for winning this week's writing challenge: Should All Schools Introduce Assistance Animals for Exams? Massi wins a $50 Westfield gift card for his submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!

Photo: iStock.com/Michael Krinke