Social Learning Amplified hosted by Eric Mazur
Rethinking Grades: A Path to Active Learning with Josh Eyler
Jan 1, 2025
Josh Eyler, director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at the University of Mississippi, discusses the harmful impact of traditional grading on student engagement. He critiques existing grading systems for promoting extrinsic motivation and highlights the need for alternative models that focus on intrinsic learning. Eyler emphasizes the complexities of objective assessments and advocates for innovative alternatives that prioritize student growth. Concluding with a vision for a gradeless future, he encourages educators to embrace change and foster a supportive learning environment.
33:06
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Quick takeaways
- Grades often undermine intrinsic motivation, leading students to prioritize compliance over genuine learning and fostering unethical behaviors like cheating.
- Alternative grading models focus on recognizing individual learning progress and reorienting education towards meaningful understanding rather than traditional evaluation metrics.
Deep dives
The Impact of Grading on Motivation
Grades function as extrinsic motivators that can undermine intrinsic motivation crucial for deep learning. While grades may compel students to comply with class requirements, they do not foster a genuine desire to learn, which depends on effective teacher-student relationships and engaging pedagogy. The pressure associated with grades can lead students to prioritize strategic learning, choosing courses based on perceived grade outcomes rather than genuine interest. Moreover, this environment can incentivize unethical behavior, such as cheating, as students feel compelled to achieve high grades to meet external expectations.
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