US School Districts: Changing Grading System - Is It A Good Idea?

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The discussion centers on the debate over changing grading systems in U.S. school districts, specifically the shift towards evaluating students based solely on their mastery of material rather than traditional metrics like attendance and homework completion. Critics argue that this approach may undermine the motivation and discipline needed for academic success, while proponents believe it allows for a more accurate representation of a student's knowledge. The conversation highlights concerns about potential funding motivations behind these changes and the implications for student performance. Some participants draw comparisons to successful educational models in Europe, suggesting that a different grading philosophy could yield positive results. Overall, the effectiveness of such a grading system remains contentious and is seen as politically charged.
  • #121
@ PeterDonis
Okay, sorry we weren't able to have a on-point discussion.
 
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  • #122
Such as with affirmative action (btw, I am referencing a social policy - not politics), the question I have is whether we are making sure people can do their jobs and have the skills that are associated with a major/degree?

Personal development matters, but mixing that up with skills-based development metrics seems illogical. A grade in calculus should measure a student's calculus understanding and skill - it should not at all be based on their personal character, their hard work, their personal background, etc. Those things matter in other ways, but we still need a separate, strictly skills-based way of grading people.
 
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