Criteria used in awarding physics honors degrees are examined including the use of "total grade," combining written examinations, laboratory work, and other course work. Variations in practice are shown to exist and doubts have arisen about the validity of the average degree examination as the basis for professional standing. (JMF)

Investigated use of causal attribution and self-assessment variables in accounting for grade point average (GPA) variance and identifying causes for grades received, as perceived by high school students. Results showed causal attribution and self-assessment variables accounted for significant amounts of GPA variance. (Author)

A system for grading student work based on contracts is examined. Types of contracts, methods for controlling quality as well as quantity of work, advantages of the contract grading system, and the results of research into the use of grade contracts--including student reaction to the system--are some of the topics discussed. (JMP)

The viewpoints of Arrington and Jerry L. Modisette regarding Wilbert J. McKeachie's previously published article on grading are offered with a reply by McKeachie. Variations in standards, the motivational value of grades, and nonacademic influences on grades are considered. (LBH)

College grades are no longer accurate indicators of what students know. Ultimately, students and employers will be shortchanged and the validity of higher education endangered. Factors contributing to grade inflation include emphasis on student self-esteem, new grading schemes, competition for students. Possible solutions include raised admissions…

Three experiments (n=300) were conducted to investigate college student reactions to classroom fairness issues. In two experiments, student ratings of fairness were affected by manipulations of procedural fairness and grade outcome. Effects of procedural fairness were stronger than grade. In the third experiment, ratings of professors were…

Describes the use of batch-oriented computing as the basis for reintroducing homework problems as a teaching tool in beginning chemistry instruction. Stems from and expands upon a system used in a university setting that produces, delivers, grades, and keeps records for homework problems. (DDR)

Describes the use of computers for grading assignments in beginning and intermediate reporting and writing programs at Texas A&M University. Indicates that students store assignments on a computer network, where the instructor can access them to grade them. Describes techniques for making electronic corrections clear and provides sample…

The major forms of evidence that support a standard's credibility are reviewed, and what can be done over time and for different forms of an examination to enhance its comparability in a credentialing setting is outlined. Pass-fail decisions must be consistent to ensure a standard's credibility. (SLD)

Discusses a small group debate technique that can be utilized in any classroom that includes controversial topics. Explains the technique prepares students to give presentations. Includes information on the method, topic selection, group formation, debate location, group interaction, concerns with teacher supervision, student outlines, and…

Surveys of college faculty members' current use of objective tests indicated that most respondents (N=38) did not use state-of-the-art procedures associated with construction and analysis of objective tests. Many were unfamiliar with basic testing terms and tools and did not understand the meanings of the terms and tools. (SM)

Notes that professional reflection is a powerful aspect of practice and, in welcoming many "English Journal" colleagues back to another academic year, the author suspects that many are thinking a good deal about grading. Discusses the importance of feedback for student writing. Suggests the need to relocate teacher feedback to the public forums of…

Reports on study of 20 classes of developmental studies mathematics at Middle Tennessee State University. The experimental group received mid-term grade reports, while the control group did not. The study found no significant difference between experimental group and control group between midterm and final grade report averages. Posttest scores…

Discusses several alternatives to traditional teaching methods, focusing on contract grading and student-centered teaching. Notes that these changes create a new framework within which teachers can continually learn how to teach. (MM)

Compared was the content of what is taught and what is tested in a high school calculus course. Results showed differences in content coverage across teachers and differences in the overlap between content taught and content tested. Methodological issues in the investigation of teacher grading practices are discussed. (CW)