An Oklahoma student is decrying her failing grade on a reflection essay for psychology course. Her instructors say it was well-deserved not for her religious views but for her lack of empirical evidence, not following directions and a poorly written assignment. (Pawel Kacperek / Getty Images)
A University of Oklahoma psychology student is challenging a failing grade after submitting a gender‑roles reflection essay that heavily referenced the Bible, sparking debate over free speech, academic standards and the role of personal belief in college coursework.
Samantha Fulnecky, a junior psychology major, submitted a 650‑word reaction paper in a course assignment asking students to reflect on societal expectations of gender and children. The instructions allowed students to incorporate personal experience or perspective, but emphasized thoughtful engagement with the original article. Fulnecky’s essay instead leaned heavily on biblical teachings to argue for traditional gender roles, without citing empirical research or quoting specific scripture…