+ Specifications Grading: A Promising Alternative! Workshop Day, - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

+ Specifications Grading: A Promising Alternative! Workshop Day, March 31, 2015 Molly Baker and Amanda Eichman

+ What is “specs grading?” n “…borrows elements of pass-fail grading, competency-based education and classic contract grading, and incorporates opportunities for student choice and control that boosts motivation and sense of responsibility.”

+ What is “specs grading?” n “….. students receive credit … based on the number of work requirements and the specific work requirements they complete at a satisfactory level by given due dates…. n …students earn higher grades by jumping more hurdles that show evidence of more learning …or jumping higher hurdles that show evidence of more advanced learning, or both.”

+ Each assignment has clear specs for a pass (acceptable). n Instructors provide very clear, detailed specs for what constitutes a passing assignment, test or bundle n Specs reflect B- level or better standards n No partial credit.

+ All assignments (more hurdles?) are tied to course learning outcomes. *Rewards more learning.

+ All assignments (higher hurdles) are tied to course learning outcomes. *Rewards more advanced learning.

+ All assignments (more & higher hurdles) are tied to course learning outcomes . *Rewards both more learning and more advanced learning.

+ Assignments can be bundled and staggered across the term. n Bundle: n a themed group of assignments, all due at once. n Sometimes several bundles are sequenced

+ Specs grading systems often include safety-net options. n Safety-net options reduce anxiety from: n Learning unfamiliar system of grading n Higher standards/ B level n No partial credit or points

+ Specs grading feels better to students than traditional grading systems. n Motivates students to work harder. n Much student choice and control. n Reduces stress.

+ Specs grading feels better to students than traditional grading systems. n Feel more responsible for their own grades. n Specs checkmarks feel like coaching. n Fosters higher- order and creative thinking.

+ Specs grading feels better to faculty than traditional grading systems. n Upholds high n Minimizes conflict academic between faculty standards. B-level. and students. n Motivates students n Saves faculty to excel grading time. n Discourages cheating.

+ Reflection Activity

+ Reflection Activity n What do you notice about your grading attitudes and what you consider to be the purpose of grading? n What attitudes do you think are consistent with what you know about specifications grading so far?

+ Transitioning Tips… n …for moving from a traditional grading system to specs grading n See examples from your discipline. n Start with 1 or 2 assignments or bundles. n Review Specifications Grading (book in Library) for more tips and adaptations n Ask questions!