Reports an investigation to assess praiseworthy grading versus traditional grading. With praiseworthy grading, finds improvement in the quality of student writing, and argues that teachers give balanced and focused commentary on the strengths and weaknesses in students' writing. (JAD)

Two methods of practical assessment, differing in degree of objectivity, were compared using a sample of bricklaying teachers. The results indicated that use of a substantially objective marking scale was more reliable, provided lower marks, and required substantially more time to complete. (JOW)

Research examines the difference in academic achievement between Yiddish-speaking and French-speaking students. Results indicate that teachers base expectations on intellectual ability and previous performance rather than on ethnicity. (RB)

Examined the status of machine transcription (MT) in postsecondary institutions during the 1985 school year. Described the program setting and organization of MT instruction, the instructional methods, material and equipment used, and a scheme for evaluation and grading. (JOW)

Describes a method of assigning letter grades based on five preliminary grading routines programed in a microcomputer spreadsheet program, in which the teacher chooses the final grade distribution either from the suggested routines or by making an appropriate adjustment to them. (MBR)

Offers guidelines for grading essays so that students and parents can see what is expected. Suggests keying a grading scale to the criteria set forth in the guidelines. (FL)

Outlines an evaluation method for case studies in business classes that involves three components--individual, intergroup, and intragroup ratings. Discusses the effectiveness of the approach in (1) diffusing subjective bias, (2) exposing students to peers' analysis, (3) preventing workload inequity, and (4) developing students' evaluation skills.…

Reactions to a marking system proposed by Scott are offered and inconsistencies identified. It is suggested that Scott's system does not minimize any of the difficulties usually apparent in absolute systems and presents some new problems. (LBH)

Students' assessments of one type of learning product, the term paper, were examined. The basic question underlying the project was whether students enrolled in college courses would be less adequate at assigning grades and ranks to their classmates' papers than would the instructors. A case is made for classmate evaluation. (LBH)

Signal detection theory (SDT) has been widely applied in situations where observers attempt to detect or discriminate between two or more events. The usefulness of SDT with latent classes was illustrated in the context of an educational situation that can be readily conceptualized as a signal detection task: grading term papers. The approach…

A basic method of class evaluation for vocational and industrial teachers is given which employs tools and concepts the craftsman has already mastered. Also given is a system for determining end of unit grades, based in part on standards of the trade in question. (DS)

Instructors of nursing often face vexing questions concerning the assignment of grades, both during and at the end of the course: Should grade distributions follow a predetermined curve? How does a teacher bring together the several partial grades? Many variables influence evaluation decisions; the authors present theory and ground rules.…

This paper calls for a reevaluation of the evaluation procedures of counselors-in-training. Specifically, it advocates making evaluation educational rather than judgemental. (RP)

Presents the fallacy of four commonly held views about the necessity of grading and suggests ways the principal start the process of grading reform. (Author/DN)