Personalization Precedes Standardization

The evolution of grading in American higher education transitioned from a personalized and tailored approach to a standardized letter grading system. Initially, education was characterized by individual attention from proctors who assessed student mastery through direct interaction and personal recommendations. This deeply personal method prevailed for nearly two centuries until the late 1800s, when the introduction of letter grades marked a shift towards efficiency and uniformity, with grades reflecting a more rigid assessment structure.