Perhaps you can use a rubric, with extra formative feedback at the end?
Really - rubrics are great for students, but that is not all!
Although I’d like to think that the same teacher would apply the same grading scale to all projects, we have to admit we are human and sometimes vary in our assessments. I feel that a rubric holds to INSTRUCTORS to a certain level of FAIRNESS. We might find ourselves grading the same assignment on different nights for different students, and without a rubric, might subtract a certain amount of points from one student’s paper vs. another. This is not because of favouritism, but more likely because 3 points might seem like the right amount at that time. Having a rubric ensures that we are holding ourselves and each assignment to the same standard.
On a more efficient note, I find that I hem and haw less about if the paper was a B- or C+ - the rubric can help me make that decision much quicker and more fairly.
Douglas,
I agree. If somone hates rubrics, they haven't used a good rubric that was well-planned and connected to the learning outcomes. They help both instructors and students. Thanks!
Now I cannot imagine why anyone would hate a rubric. I think those that hate rubrics simply have not used them in an applied manner. Rubrics work for online and visual learners. They provide structure and organization. I love rubrics.
Dennis,
I agree. It takes some practice to make effective rubrics, but they should help both the students and instructor. If you haven't used RubiStar, try it. You can Google RubiStar and find the electronic rubric maker that you can edit to meet your needs. Thanks!
I am to total opposite Cathleen. I find rubrics help the student produce a better product and provide them "fair warning" as to how I will grade. Using rubrics helps me be consistent, focused, and faster.
Thanks for your feedback about Rubrics, Cathleen. I on the other hand love rubrics, as this gives me and the student a guideline for accomplishing the project's objectives.
