But They Won’t Do It if I Don’t Grade It

Mike SzczepanikBlog, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Change is hard. Assignment completion is a concern for some if there are no grades. Numerous factors affect student motivation. Not all students are motivated by grades. The carrot-and-stick motivational technique worked for the industrial revolution. Previously, I had discussed my reasons for breaking free from grades. While there are many benefits to going gradeless, there are also some … Read More

Why Gradeless? Breaking Free From Grades

Mike SzczepanikBlog, Engage Better, Grade Better, Innovate Better, Mastery Done Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Our grading habits can be inconsistent and have limited value in the learning process. The extrinsic motivation of grades often limits our students’ drive for deeper learning. Going gradeless is not a simple process, but a worthy one to help students reflect, listen to feedback, and grow. In traditional education systems, grades have long been the primary measure of … Read More

Cinco de Mayo and Growing Forward

Carly SpinaBlog, Connect Better

TL;DR: Cinco de Mayo is a time to pause, learn, and reflect on why so many celebrate this holiday. Discuss with students the differences between appreciating and appropriating the holidays and special days from other cultures. It is imperative that we continue to be reflective and grow forward. On May 5th, many folks celebrate Cinco de Mayo. How wonderful! I’d … Read More