In this episode of the Forum Faculty podcast, host Tom Cox is joined by Mike Hude, Joel Sellier, and Shane O’Neill to delve into the complexities and controversies surrounding grades in education. The discussion covers the transactional nature of grades, how they can detract from genuine learning, and the ways in which teachers can use grades as both motivational tools and communication devices. The teachers share personal anecdotes and experiences, debate the merits of public versus private grades, and explore potential alternatives to traditional grading systems. The conversation wraps up with reflections on how grades affect students’ identities, parent expectations, and the long-term implications for higher education and careers.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:42 What’s Wrong with Grades?
02:03 Grades as a Motivational Tool
03:07 Effort vs. Mastery in Grading
05:29 Subjectivity and Objectivity in Grading
13:05 Student Identity and Grades
16:38 Teacher Strategies and Challenges
33:29 Public vs. Private Grades
35:45 Healthy Shame in Grades
36:16 The Wall of Shame for Teachers
36:43 Reflecting on Test Grades
39:55 Parental Pressure and College Expectations
45:45 Lessons Learned from Grades
59:16 The Value of Grades and Feedback
01:05:08 Concluding Thoughts