David Clark discusses using alternative grading practices to foster student learning on episode 511 of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast.

Quotes from the episode


Does this represent what I really care about?
-David Clark

Most of us are used to giving feedback in some way, but making it helpful is the tough part.
-David Clark

A reassessment always needs some reflective parts, some metacognition, because that's part of the feedback loop.
-David Clark

People aren't going to remember everything that they've learned in our classes for all time.
-David Clark

As soon as there's a grade assigned, students tend to lose the intrinsic motivation they might have to learn these things and focus entirely on that extrinsic grade aspect.
-David Clark


Resources

Grading for Growth: A Guide to Alternative Grading Practices that Promote Authentic Learning and Student Engagement in Higher Education, by David Clark & Robert Talbert
Episode 510: The Principles of Grading for Growth with Robert Talbert
Four pillars described in Grading for Growth, by David Clark and Robert Talbert

Clearly defined standards
Helpful feedback
Reassessment without penalty
Marks indicate progress


Test Yourself: Which Faces Were Made by AI
Grading for Growth Blog