Effective Grading: A Tool for Learning and Assessment

by Barbara E. Fassler Walvoord, Virginia Johnson Anderson

Effective Grading is written for the faculty member who believes the grading process is a valuable measure of student learning. This hands-on guide for evaluating student work offers an in-depth examination of the linkage between teaching and grading. It uses grades not as isolated artifacts, but as part of a process that, when integrated with course objectives, provides rich information about student learning. The authors reveal how the grading process can also be used for broader assessment objectives, such as curriculum and institutional assessment. As practical as it is informative, Effective Grading contains a wealth of special materials, including AAHE's Principles of Good Practice for Assessing Student Learning, types of assignments and tests, and a plan for a faculty workshop on grading and assessment. In addition, the book provides background to the principles of the grading process as well as a wealth of illustrative examples, offering faculty both a sound basis in assessment theory and the practical tools they need to put it to work.

Genres: Education, Teaching, Nonfiction

250 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 1998

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. The way in which Walvoord approaches grading is great food for thought for those of us in education: how well do we think out our assessment process? are our expectations for our students clear, or could they be open to interpretation? what are we assessing (knowledge? skills? both?) and why?

The steps outlined here clearly lead educators to a better understanding of both assessment and instructional design, which need to go hand-in-hand for either to be effective. It's also clear that we needs to use student assessment as a way to also assess our effectiveness as educators. In other words, if the products students are giving us aren't up to our standards, is there perhaps a problem with how we're teaching or communicating with them. It's also important to coordinate with the other department members so that students get a clear view of what it means to be an educated historian/English major/psychology student in terms of skills and background.

Best used as a group exploration, but good for individual reflection.

[Melanie Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informs you on how to grade for student happiness AND what your department will say about you...!

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good practical guide with tips that can be implemented today. I would consider reading this again with colleagues ... it would be beneficial to read, implement, and share with one another.