Sharing Grades
In terms of assigning "weights" to various assignment types in my classes, the course syllabus spells out minimum and maximum limits within categories, but I do have a measure of flexibility.
I tend to come down on the side believing that as my students get out into the "real world," they will be evaluated more on what they do on a daily basis, day-in and day-out, than they will on one particular day. Therefore, I like to assign as much weight as I can to class participation and homework assignments.
As for sharing grades, the module recommends a couple of online gradebooks, but I use Engrade. It is very user-friendly, and the students can log in at any time to view their grade in the class. It will show them not only their "averages," but also their marks on each particular assignment within each category.
Hi Anthony:
I think its a good idea to evaluate students as they will be evaluated in the real world. This is especially true for career based courses.
Regards, Barry
In regard to homework and assignment, I treat it as reinforcement but not reliable since they do it outside of class time, so I include it within a category of objective and subjective measures.
As regards to the importance of sharing grades, it helps the student monitor and be aware of his/her progress for early prevention.
My department has policy set on the weight for class participation which I totally agree with. Each student must participate in the discussion, drill and practice. When I ask open-ended questions about a topic or problem, I value mostly impromptu responses from students that unlock the solution to a problem or that give more relevance on the topic. This is to me one of the "beautiful minds" in action!
