Extra Credit
I do not have the freedom of choice in the matter of extra credit as it has been outlined that we do not offer the option of extra credit per our school policy.
James,
EC is about points and grades, and less to do with real learning. If mastering or understanding is essential, then EC must represent a very small part of the process.
Barry Westling
I agree. Usually extra credit would be asked for if a student was falling short in other areas such tests, homework, etc. I think that time would be better spent trying to work on those areas instead of giving an easy out to make up points. That is just my opinion. I still like hearing what everyone else's opinion is though.
Judy,
I don't mind students doing extra work, but I don't award extra credit. EC is about points and grades, and little about learning. If students come to me and ask for additional works (read an article, write a paper, do an activity), I'll assist them AND recognize them for the effort, but not in the form of giving points.
Barry Westling
I feel extra credit is good and can help the student, but also must be used wisely. Instructor should make sure the student understands the the content and material of the course being taught.
James,
I think each instructor and institution has to decide what works best for them.
Barry Westling
My College does not allow extra credit. At first, I thought this to be a P.I.T.A., however, I quickly saw how students would use it in lieu of doing any actual work, and rely on EC to get them through.
EC can be useful, however we must ensure that ALL students have access to it, and it can't be used for one or two students having an issue.
Corliss,
I for one choose not to give EC at all. My experience has not been good, and little real learning ever really comes from it. It may help with grades or points, but I'm interested in my students learning.
Barry Westling
Extra credit should be used with caution!
April,
I think there's nothing wrong in giving extra assignments or alternative ways to test - as these are part of the dynamics of assuring good instruction. It's the excessive points some teachers give for relative little work that contributes even less to their learning. And when this is allowed in substitution for assigned work, that's just plain unfair to the dikigent students who have complied with the course requirements. I think each teacher and institution has to decide what works best for them.
Barry Westling
I think that extra credit can be a great assest if it is used in ways other than to adding points. In some cases a studnet may not do well on a written test, and instead give the student a verbal test. so when you know the students get it, but maybe lack in points due to paperwork extra credit can be given verbally.
Heather,
This is a good policy. EC distorts grades and in most cases doesn't really help the student's learning.
Barry Westling
