Two students and a professor are debating limiting assignment extensions. Tom (Student) Honestly, I think assignment extensions are being abused. I know several classmates who ask for extra time every single deadline, even when they've had weeks. It doesn't feel fair to those of us who push to submit on time. We need clearer rules and maybe even penalties if extensions become routine. Zoe (Student) I get where you're coming from, but not every student abuses the system. Some genuinely need more time mental health, family emergencies, unexpected tech issues. If we make things too strict, it might hurt those already under pressure. There has to be some compassion built into the system. Dr. Parker (Professor) You both raise valid concerns. The aim must be fairness, and that includes consistency in how extensions are granted. From what I've seen in the extension usage statistics, most students don't request often but we do have repeat offenders. A balanced policy might help us address both sides. Tom (Student) Exactly. Maybe we could implement an online request system that logs every extension per student. That way professors can see if it's a one off or part of a pattern. It introduces accountability without removing the option entirely. Zoe (Student) That could work if it's paired with clear policy guidelines. Like, define what counts as a valid reason, what documentation's required, and how long extensions can be. It'll give students clarity and professors consistency. We should also avoid making it harder for students going through personal challenges. Dr. Parker (Professor) I agree, and I think discretion still matters. We can trial a system where requests go through the portal but still allow professors to approve based on context. A flexible framework supported by data would let us track trends and ensure fairness over time. Tom (Student) And maybe add a small penalty for repeated late submissions like a one mark deduction or reduced feedback priority. Not harsh, but enough to discourage casual extension-seeking. That might encourage students to plan better without punishing genuine cases. Zoe (Student) I'm okay with that as long as there's room for appeal. And maybe some awareness sessions about how and when to request extensions properly so students don't wait until the last minute or assume it's automatic. Dr. Parker (Professor) Very sensible suggestions. Let's trial a stricter extension policy next semester: require online requests, publish transparent guidelines, and allow professor discretion with mild penalties for chronic lateness. We'll collect feedback from students and faculty at the end of term to see if it strikes the right balance.