The Hidden Cost of Letter Grades: The Impact of Grading on Student Learning

In this episode of Let's Talk ED, I (Zahi Atallah) address the topic of grading as one method of assessment. Are grades really a measure of how much students have learned? I challenge this common misconception by exploring the difference between “assessment of learning” (grading) and “assessment for learning" (student learning outcome assessment). Moreover, I discuss the widespread belief that grades are normally distributed and can be curved without affecting the learning; hence, sharing some of the unintended consequences of these practices, including grade inflation.

Finally, I dive into progressive trends like “Ungrading” and competency-based education (CBE), which aim to prioritize learning and skill mastery over traditional grading methods. Join me on a journey of rethinking assessment to create a more equitable and effective education system. Learning and enhancing the knowledge and abilities of learners are the aim of teaching, not failing or weeding out students. So, let’s refocus on the essence of education, and that is workforce and community development.

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