Advocating Enhanced Evaluation Strategies
In the realm of academia, a new concept called "ungrading" is gaining traction as a potential alternative to the traditional grading system. Ungrading, a form of 'grading for growth', aims to shift the focus from performance to mastery, improving student motivation, learning quality, and fostering authentic student-teacher relationships [1][3].
However, the path to implementing this innovative approach in American schools is not without obstacles. One of the most significant challenges lies in the current shortage of teachers in the U.S., with 567,000 fewer teachers in the public school system post-pandemic [2]. This shortage, coupled with the increased teacher workload that ungrading might require for providing detailed feedback and guidance, presents a formidable hurdle [1].
Another concern is the uncertainty surrounding self-assessment without grades. Students may find it challenging to evaluate their own learning without the traditional grading system [1]. Furthermore, the entrenched reliance on grades for college admissions, standardized accountability systems, and other institutional purposes creates additional resistance to the transition [1][3].
Despite these challenges, proponents of ungrading argue that it can encourage risk-taking and deeper engagement with feedback, reducing anxiety and fostering intrinsic motivation for learning [3]. Ungrading also allows students to revise work without fear of consequences, encouraging them to accept feedback and turn in their best work [1].
The current education system in America is often criticized for setting students up for failure. A report by the U.S. Department of Education states that 54% of American adults have a literacy level equivalent to a 6th grader [2]. This, coupled with the emphasis on assessment and memorization rather than academic ability, has led to concerns about the recognition of a student's true academic potential [4].
Students like Annika Johnston and Kaycee Metully, both seniors at Hellgate, express concerns about test-based grading, feeling that their academic ability isn't fully recognized [4]. Metully notes that effort and hard work can be overlooked in favor of grades, particularly in subjects like mathematics [4].
The goal is to create a school environment where students are excited to learn. Proposed changes to the grading system include a focus on study skills, interactive and hands-on curriculum, and making learning more enjoyable to encourage student engagement [5]. Ungrading, with its emphasis on student and teacher feedback, could play a significant role in achieving this goal [1].
Eddie Rosbarsky, another Hellgate senior, argues that the grading system can both motivate and hinder students, depending on their initial academic standing [4]. The grading system can discourage students who are struggling or learn differently, often labeling them as lazy or disobedient [6].
The education sector is not without its stressors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 60% of teachers experience school-related stress frequently or often [6]. Teachers are underpaid, treated poorly by students, and viewed as glorified babysitters, leading many to opt for other job options [6].
In conclusion, while ungrading offers promising educational benefits, systemic inertia, expectations, and logistical challenges pose significant barriers to broader adoption in U.S. schools [1][3]. However, with cultural shifts among educators, students, schools, and policymakers, a future of education where student engagement and growth are rewarded in ways other than a grade, and where class can be fun and engaging, may not be far off.
References:
[1] McMillan, J. (2021). Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead). Harvard Education Press.
[2] U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Nation's Report Card: 2018 Mathematics. Retrieved from https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/reading_math_2018/
[3] Pawlikowski, J. (2019). Ungrading: Why grades are bad and how they can be fixed. ASCD.
[4] Johnson, A. (2021). Hellgate High seniors discuss the current grading system and its effects on students. The Daily Cardinal.
[5] Hess, L. (2019). The Case for Ungrading. Education Week.
[6] Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Teachers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/teachers.htm
In New York, a discussion about implementing the 'ungrading' approach in schools, which emphasizes learning and mastery over traditional grading, is ongoing. However, concerns about the current teacher shortage and the potential increase in workload, along with the challenges of self-assessment without grades and resistance from institutional structures, are significant hurdles. Yet, proponents argue that ungrading can foster authentic relationships, encourage intrinsic motivation, and create an environment conducive to personal growth and learning.
