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This is just uninformed. The main value of the degree comes from the passing requirements.itallcomestoenergy said:
Failing students who are close to passing?
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the challenges teachers face when determining how to grade students who are close to passing, particularly those with grades around the threshold for a passing mark. It explores various grading policies, the implications of bumping grades, and the fairness of such decisions in educational contexts.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Meta-discussion
Main Points Raised
- Some participants argue that teachers should not automatically bump grades for students who are close to passing, as this could lower academic standards and create unfairness for other students.
- Others suggest that individual circumstances, such as a student's effort and participation, should be considered when evaluating borderline cases.
- A participant mentions that established school or departmental policies often dictate how to handle borderline grades, limiting instructor discretion.
- Some contributors emphasize the importance of ensuring that students who pass are adequately prepared for subsequent courses, raising concerns about the long-term implications of passing students who do not meet the necessary standards.
- There is a recurring theme questioning the fairness of passing students who are "almost passing," with some participants highlighting the potential for a slippery slope in grading practices.
- A participant shares a personal experience of struggling due to external factors, suggesting that context and individual circumstances can significantly impact a student's performance.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of views on how to handle borderline grades, with no consensus reached. Some advocate for strict adherence to grading standards, while others support a more flexible approach that considers individual student circumstances.
Contextual Notes
Discussions reveal a variety of grading systems and policies across different institutions, highlighting the complexity of the issue. There are also mentions of the importance of prerequisite skills for success in advanced courses, which complicates the decision-making process for educators.
Who May Find This Useful
Educators, academic administrators, and students interested in grading practices and policies may find this discussion relevant, particularly those involved in STEM education.