SLIDE 1 +
Specifications Grading: A Promising Alternative!
Workshop Day, March 31, 2015 Molly Baker and Amanda Eichman
SLIDE 2 +What is “specs grading?”
n “…borrows elements
competency-based education and classic contract grading, and incorporates
student choice and control that boosts motivation and sense
SLIDE 3
+What is “specs grading?”
n “….. students receive credit …
based on the number of work requirements and the specific work requirements they complete at a satisfactory level by given due dates….
n …students earn higher grades
by jumping more hurdles that show evidence of more learning …or jumping higher hurdles that show evidence of more advanced learning, or both.”
SLIDE 4
+Each assignment has clear specs for a pass (acceptable).
n Instructors provide
very clear, detailed specs for what constitutes a passing assignment, test or bundle
n Specs reflect B-
level or better standards
n No partial credit.
SLIDE 5
+All assignments (more hurdles?) are tied to course learning outcomes.
*Rewards more learning.
SLIDE 6
+All assignments (higher hurdles) are tied to course learning outcomes.
*Rewards more advanced learning.
SLIDE 7
+ All assignments (more & higher hurdles)
are tied to course learning outcomes.
*Rewards both more learning and more advanced learning.
SLIDE 8
+Assignments can be bundled and staggered across the term.
n Bundle: n a themed group of
assignments, all due at once.
n Sometimes several
bundles are sequenced
SLIDE 9 +Specs grading systems often include safety-net options.
n Safety-net options
reduce anxiety from:
n Learning
unfamiliar system
n Higher standards/
B level
n No partial credit
SLIDE 10
+ Specs grading feels better to students
than traditional grading systems.
n Motivates students
to work harder.
n Much student
choice and control.
n Reduces stress.
SLIDE 11 + Specs grading feels better to students
than traditional grading systems.
n Feel more
responsible for their own grades.
n Specs checkmarks
feel like coaching.
n Fosters higher-
thinking.
SLIDE 12 + Specs grading feels better to faculty
than traditional grading systems.
n Upholds high
academic
n Motivates students
to excel
n Discourages
cheating.
n Minimizes conflict
between faculty and students.
n Saves faculty
grading time.
SLIDE 13
+Reflection Activity
SLIDE 14
+Reflection Activity
n What do you notice about your
grading attitudes and what you consider to be the purpose of grading?
n What attitudes do you think are
consistent with what you know about specifications grading so far?
SLIDE 15
+Transitioning Tips…
n …for moving from a
traditional grading system to specs grading
n See examples from
your discipline.
n Start with 1 or 2
assignments or bundles.
n Review Specifications
Grading (book in Library) for more tips and adaptations
n Ask questions!
