Juan,
This is really a better approach than something along the lines of "giving away empty points" that have little to do with student performance learning.
Barry Westling
I don't feel that extra credit has a role in final grades. I believe in giving students enough assignments during the course where they have ampule time to make up lower scores.
Robin,
Yeah, EC doesn't really add much to learning, eh?
Barry Westling
I agree with you. I do not give much extra credit work. Many students use this as a replacement for doing the work that was assigned in the first place, or not studying for tests.
Craig,
This makes sense. Limiting the points to just one graded component helps keep the integrity of the overall grading system that's in place.
Barry Westling
I only use extra credit on test given. Then the points only help on that test and can not be used in place of a project or something else.
Reshona,
This sounds like a good policy. All I would comment is this should be spelled out clearly at the beginning of the course, and whatever guidelines you give for it need to be followed exactly.
Barry Westling
I agree. I don't do extra credit unless I have a student who is doing well but just falling shy of a pass or that A that they really want. Do a little extra credit, and it will not be an easy assignment, to boost the grade a little. Generally my students know that they have to give me effort from start to finish to earn their grades but I don't mind helping them out a little if they really need it.
Thomas,
This is probably true in most cases. I don't give extra points, but I do encourage extra credit assignments if a student wants to work on a project to demonstrate their comprehension of a specific topic. They get recognition, but nothing that improves their grade.
Barry Westling
I do not award extra credit.... Most students who want "extra" credit did not do what is needed to get regular credit, IE study, show-up, pay attention, etc.. Those with good study habits usually have the grades that make "extra" credit not necessary....
Wayne,
These are good sentiments. We all want our students to do their best. Yet, when a few students are overtly not trying their best and want to skate by, that's difficult for the hardworking students to take. Over the years, I've become more strict about EC, and pretty much, don't give it. But I do make a few adjustments, like dropping the lowest quiz scores, and a bonus essay on a mid-term or final exam that is not required but counts for as much correct information that is provided.
Barry Westling
My institution does not allow for extra credit. Personaly, I would like to be able to reward hsardworking students with the ability to earn a few extra points. As the students realizes just how well or poorly he is doing in class, the ability to gain a few extra credet points might just inspire the the student to work just a bit harder to make the current grade, rather than retaking the entire class to better his grade.
Samara,
Interesting strategy--creative and apparently effective. What I like is the opportunity is given once only, and is offered early on in the term. And for those that do attempt whatever the assignment is, it's likely to have merit.
Barry Westling
I inform my students of their one chance towards extra credit at the beginning of the term. It is usually a colossal undertaking or something outside of their comfort zone that must be completed before the first test. I inform them that that is the only chance for the credit. Usually, it is 10 additional points for the entire term. This has worked well for me.
The problem with many sltudents is that they think thye can do poorly or not complete assisgnments, then they should be allowed extra credit. I could never see why teachers should develop extra credit projects when some students don't even complete the assigned work. I am not in favor of extra creadit unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Bernadette,
My main opposition to extra credit is it tends to defeat my purpose, that of student learning. It seems to be more about points and grades rather than learning needed material.
Barry Westling
I often use extra credit work to add points onto assignments or assessments on which students received poor grades.
I agree; that strategy only leads to trouble.
Richard,
Many instructors experience this frustration. I think there is merit in extra projects or assignments if extra points are not the purpose. Sometimes students want to go above and beyond the minimum.
Barry Westling
If extra credit is going to be on the table for the course it should be listed in the syllabus. It drives me crazy as an instructor when a student approaches me three quaters through the term after having sub par effort, attendance and test scores and askes if there is an extra credit assignment they can do to help their grade.
