Allen,
Yeah, to students, points towards a grade are like a type of currency. To manage students angst about grades, I try to explain my grading procedure at the outset of class, accompanied with a detailed description also included in my syllabus.
Barry Westling
Having hard copies or virtual copies of current grades alleviates stress and anxiety. Students like to know where they stand at all times, especially after an exam or a paper assignment has been graded and recorded.
Allen,
One way I keep this situation under control is by informing everyone on the first day when they can expect quiz and test scores, really, anything graded, to be posted. If I get it done sooner, I'll post grades. But I feel it's better to "under promise" and "over produce", rather than the opposite extremes.
Barry Westling
I think its human nature to want to know how they are doing after every test and lab sheet accomplished . No one really cares to wait for results. Some years ago before computer ASE testing , we would have to wait many months to find out results!
Willie,
Students want and need direction. When we're able to share our advice, suggestions, and grade information, it helps convey that we care about their success, and also helps build trust and respect between instructor and student.
Barry Westling
I found this information to be very helpful in keeping students up to par as to where they are in their educational process.
Erin,
Yes, and sooner is better than later. Getting just a little off track without advice to redirect study or improve performance helps no one. And personalizing can also help create trust and respect.
Barry Westling
So that they know if they need to improve and perhaps to create a dialogue where they can express their issue with the course.
Willie,
Without a sense of progress made or missing assignments, it'd be difficult to successfully make any needed changes. I believe the more frequent this information is shared, the better
Barry Westling
Students need to be aware of their status so they are always aware of grade averages, missed work, etc.
Kim,
This is true. Personalizing discussion regarding progress or improvements can do much to strengthen the. Relationship between student and instructor. Trust and greater respect are the least among many potential outcomes.
Barry Westling
I believe that if students aren't able to track their progress, they spend a lot of time worrying. With so much information being presented in a short amount of time, it is encouraging to the students, and the instructors to be sure the students know exactly where they are in the course. I have also seen it bond students that might start studying together and establish connections. This is important due to the team work that is required in this field.
Taiya,
Wonderful. Access to information can only help. I believe individual discussion with students allows me to share my ideas for improvement, and convey that I care about the students success.
Barry Westling
We use an electronic grade book that students can access at any time (it is updated weekly) and also a writen weekly grade report.
Eugene,
In my classes, this is not an optional activity but one that I prioritize and require students to participate. I also use an advising report that summarizes what was discussed, what results occurred, and what expectations I have and the students responsibility to comply. Of course, they sign this document and get a copy, which is part of their permanent record.
Barry Westling
By having a system in which you can allow the student to see the progress of their work with regards to points awarded for the completion of projects, quizzes and professionalism it is possible to sit down with students on an individual basis at regular intervals to point out areas that they may be weak in with regards to test taking, homework completion or practical lab applications. This gives the instructor and the student ways to develop a plan to increase the students performance if they desire.
Frank,
Once a week is great! Students appreciate knowing their status. I share information personally whenever possible.
Barry Westling
I also keep them up to date with a progress report at least once a week. This keeps them informed and also lets them know what they are missing.
Paul,
I meet with student to personal share their performance, along with posting all graded activities immediately once graded. I like to be able share my suggestions for improvement, advice, and of course, praise students for outstanding work.
Barry Westling
it lets the students know how they're doing so they can make adjustments asap to pass the class instead of failing
