I've spent hours mastering algebra and correctly solving problems, only to lose points because Pearson didn't accept a valid alternative format, like typing a square root differently or leaving an answer unsimplified in a technically correct way. I was marked wrong for typing sqrt(25x^4) as 5x^2 because I didn't include the radical notation that Pearson expected.
There's no partial credit, no recognition of correct steps, and no AI-based understanding of close-but-correct answers. It's a system that punishes learning instead of rewarding it.
With the technology available in 2025, Pearson has no excuse not to implement more intelligent grading tools. AI can easily assess whether a student understands a concept, even if the formatting is slightly off. Why are we being marked wrong for details that don't reflect our comprehension?
Students aren't failing because they don't understand the math — they're failing because the grading engine is rigid, unforgiving, and behind the times.
Fix this. Add AI. Add flexibility. Or risk falling behind companies that listen to students and value learning over formatting.