The Problem with Grades

In a wide-ranging discussion about grades and grading, Dr. Joshua Eyler discusses how grades are harming our learners and what we can do to help minimize that harm. We talk about the history of grades and how the current interval letter grade system came to prominence, the stress that grades cause students and the way that stress is exacerbating the mental health crisis. And we discuss alternative grading models under the umbrella of ungrading–along with clarifying what that term really means. 

Key Takeaways:

• Our current interval letter grade system wasn’t developed because it was the best way to document student learning or engagement, it came into being because of the need for administrative efficiency. Given our role in the development of the transcript, registrars should take a lead role in helping think through What Comes Next after grades. 
• Grades are excellent extrinsic motivators. Unfortunately extrinsic motivation is only good if the goal is compliance. If we want our students to engage in their learning, we need to shift the focus to intrinsic motivation by employing alternative assessment methods or “collaborative grading” models. 
• We are in the midst of a significant period of grade reform. Registrars should leverage this opportunity to participate in and lead conversations at our institutions about alternative forms of assessment.  

Host:

Doug McKenna, University Registrar
George Mason University
[e-mail] 

Guests:

Josh Eyler, Director of Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Clinical Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
University of Mississippi
[e-mail]
Website

 

References and Additional Information:

AACRAO Core Competencies - Leadership & Management

AACRAO Professional Proficiencies - Records and Academic Services

Failing Our Future: How Grades Harm Students, and What We Can Do About It by Josh Eyler

How Humans Learn: The Science and Stories behind Effective College Teaching by Josh Eyler

Unleash Student Creativity with Contract Grading, a scholarly digital story by Doug McKenna

“Making Grades” - a digital learning activity for HE721 History of Higher Education by Doug McKenna