Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead)
This collection inspired many college educators to begin experimenting with their grading systems. Combining philosophical reflection and practical approaches, it remains an invaluable resource for instructors who are intrigued by the possibilities of collaborative grading.
Because of the system in place, a letter grade must be issued at the end of each term. A combination of individualized descriptive feedback on the student's work, revisions and multiple attempts at demonstrating understanding, and one-on-one conferences with students throughout each semester leads us to determine an appropriate grade for the term. Yes, us. The thing that was missing was not whether things counted for points or the type of assessment. It was student input. Students making a case for a grade show such a high level of comprehension, digestion of the content, and metacognition. Through written reflections, vlogs, podcasts, and in-person conferences, students make the case for their grade—and I just listen.