Examinations were analyzed using the Rasch model to determine differences in judge severity and grading period stringency for (1) essay examination (subjects were 12 judges and 32 examinees); (2) clinical examination (subjects were 18 judges and 217 examinees); and (3) oral examination (subjects were 46 judges and 270 examinees). (SLD)

Describes a composition course in which students questioned their placement in remedial instruction based upon holistic evaluation of a single essay. Notes that, when students were assigned to judge the same essays, results correlated closely with the earlier evaluations. Suggests that the exercise made students more open to peer response and…

The study found that use of the computerized Classroom Assistant Networking System to monitor and score student responses in an elementary special education resource room substantially decreased teacher time spent on record keeping. Addition of an electronic gradebook, however, did not increase efficiency over a conventional gradebook in this…

Friedman's (1987) immediate feedback, no return test technique was evaluated via student ratings. Students were enthusiastic in their assessment of the technique and believed that it facilitated their learning. (Author)

This study compared the reliability and validity indexes of randomly parallel tests administered under inclusion, exclusion, and correction for guessing directions, using 54 graduate students. It also compared the criterion-referenced grading decisions based on the different scoring methods. (TJH)

A kindergarten teacher used portfolio assessment with her students. After researching portfolios, she compiled a list of components for her classes and began the school year. She found that students were enthusiastic about portfolios, parents felt portfolios told more than report cards, and she could better see student growth. (Author/SM)

Explores the benefits of using a voice-graded writing approach, which offers instructors an opportunity to engage in virtual office critiquing of student assignments. (SR)

Discussion of team teaching focuses on librarians team teaching a course on information search strategy at the Pennsylvania State Berks Campus Library. Course requirements are described, planning for the course is discussed, grading practices are reviewed, and course and instructor evaluations are described. (two references) (LRW)

Reports a study comparing Illinois high school band and choral directors' grading systems with systems proposed by principals. Concludes that principals placed more value on cognitive criteria and performance technique but less on concert attendance and behavior than did directors. Suggests that music educators develop course and grading systems…

An anthropology professor required students to compose essay questions that they felt summarized the principal issues and objectives of the course, based on lecture content. In the final examination, students were given several of their own questions to answer. Students felt they learned more from this format. (MSE)

The formula for improving U.S. schools can be found in the philosophy that helped transform Japanese industry and in Deming's 14 principles, emulated by many corporations. Deming's arguments against appraising individual performance through quotas or numerical goals call into question schools' current grading and merit pay practices. (12…

Studies writing teachers' rhetorical comments on student papers, including its historical background and as a recent phenomenon. Reviews the findings of an extensive study conducted on a sample of 3,000 student papers concerning instructors' rhetorical commentary. Outlines basic patterns and types of teacher comments. (HB)

The guide, designed for students enrolling directly in a French university in study to be credited toward a U.S. degree, provides general information about the French educational system, types of higher education institution, and university life. Practical information on course selection, registration, examinations, and grading is also included.…

Preferences for modes of student assessment were studied for 876 Nigerian high school teachers. A majority do not favor evaluation based solely on either the final examination or continuous assessment. The most popular method was allotting 60% of the grade to the final examination and 40% to continuous assessment. (SLD)

Discusses "grade inflation," and the pressure on instructors to "play grade roll politics to save their own professional hides." Argues that the grade deflation movement works at cross purposes with its goal of elevating academic standards, and that it is at odds with composition theory and its process pedagogy. Suggests…