9 Alternative Grading Strategies
Alternative grading strategies that have become more popular over the last several years may help faculty think about evaluation in new ways and can reduce students’ perceived need to use generative AI tools inappropriately. These include specifications grading, contract or labor-based grading, and ungrading. Each method is summarized below, along with links to additional information.
Instructors create assignments with clearly specified requirements and assignments either meet the criteria or they don’t. Revision opportunities are built in.
Contract grading/labor-based grading
Students and instructors agree to a contract in which each grade is tied to a set of criteria like allowed absences, the number of drafts or assignments completed in a satisfactory manner, and the number of reading responses submitted over the semester.
The instructor specifies learning objectives, and self-reflection is used regularly for students to self-assess their progress (in reflective journals, blogs, etc.). Instructors provide students with regular feedback, and midterm or final grades are determined by consultation between the instructor and the students.
