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... and the response is to weed them out instead of educate?

Seems less pragmatic and more of a random death hill choice

Yes. The goal of grading is to grade students. If you need more education than other students, then look for a different profession or get a private tutor. Education system should not push squares into round holes with force. If a square doesn't fit a round hole, then let it go.

I'll admit that I immediately mistook 'fail' as - basically ensure they have no future in the program.

I'd be fine with points being removed or even perhaps a failed assignment - not being essentially outed from the program by failing the course. The student needs a chance to improve - otherwise the only thing they'll learn is resentment

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