Does grading stress you out? Perhaps there is a simpler way that yields better results. Have you ever heard of specifications grading? I use a variation of it and I am happy with the results.
 |
Download a Transcript |
In this episode, I am going to break down specifications grading. This strategy was highlighted in Linda Nilson’s book, Specifications Grading: Restoring Rigor, Motivating Students, and Saving Faculty Time.
Specifications grading is based on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory standard. Either a student gets it all right or they need to do additional work.
I use this strategy in many of my classes. It has proved to be very easy to grade and contributes to deeper learning. I have no hesitation to kick back work to a student to have them improve upon it.
Naturally, feedback is a central component of this strategy.
Nilson also includes a concept called assignment bundling. I believe many of you will find this a refreshing change to how you currently dole out assignments and grades.
Additional Reading
- Book: Specifications Grading: Restoring Rigor, Motivating Students, and Saving Faculty Time
- Yes, Virginia, There’s a Better Way to Grade
- Experimenting with Specifications Grading
- Advocating a new way of grading
- How an alternative grading system is improving student learning
- What is Specification Grading?
- Standards-Based Specifications Grading in Thermodynamics
- Specifications Grading
This episode of the podcast was put together with the assistance of:
-
- Music credit: Purple Planet
- Sponsored product: Audible
In the spirit of full disclosure, this is an affiliate link, which means that if you purchase this item through my link, I will earn a commission. You will not pay more when buying a product through my link. I only recommend products & systems that I use and love myself, so I know you’ll be in good hands.
Plus, when you order through my link, it helps me to continue to offer you lots of free stuff. 
Thank you in advance for your support!
