Rethinking Grading Systems

Robert Talbert, a math professor, discusses his experience with rethinking traditional grading systems. Talbert explains how one student's struggle with traditional grading led him to question its effectiveness. He and another professor wrote a book about alternative grading practices, focusing on specifications grading. This approach involves setting clear learning objectives and grading based on whether students meet those objectives. Talbert emphasizes the importance of providing feedback and allowing students to revise their work. He believes that alternative grading systems can improve student engagement, eliminate false positives, and provide more meaningful data on student learning.