Barry Westling

Hi Ryan:

Some institutions have moved away from allowing the use of extra-credit due to some issues that arise.

If a student can pass a course without demonstrating an understanding of the primary concepts, that may end up resulting in angry feelings from other students who have worked hard to earn a solid grade.

Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Hi Andrew:
One of the difficult things about extra credit is that it may allow a student to pass a course without demonstrating an understanding of themain ideas. Because of this issue, a lot of institutions have a "no extra-credit" rule.

Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Hi Pamela:
Keep in mind that any extra-credit may allow a student to pass a course without really demonstrating their understanding of the material.

Regards, Barry

ryan hoyme

My students always ask for extra credit, but our school doesn't allow it. I tell my students you will get extra knowledge by doing extra work and that's worth more than points :)

Andrew Crisp

Extra credit is a tough thing. Sometimes I feel that it is a disincentive for studying. For instance, if a student knows that there will be 5-10% extra credit given out during the course they may relax a little when it comes to studying for an exam. That being said it is an invaluable practice for a student that is struggling with the class. As long as a student puts in the effort to learn the course material then I think extra credit can be used to bolster an otherwise low grade.

Barbara Leiran

I agree. Giving extra credit is normally requested by students who fall behind for one reason or another. Alternatively, the requester is a student who did not do well on an exam. I try to think about it from the perspective of other students who did not fall behind, and did very well on exams. Those students tend to feel as though the system is not fair and this can serve as an unnecessary distraction and a waste of everyone's energy overall.

Pamela Dewitt

I think it depends on the subject matter. If our students are willing to 'create' a project or work on an individual basis for extra credit, I always take it into consideration. Specially, for those students who might have a learning challenge in traditional classrooms.