We have also talked about assessment. It seems to me we need a new model
for grading. When we focus on manipulation skills, the concepts are masked
in importance with our traditional grading. A person who simplifies an
expresion, for example, then comes up with the answer, x = 7.5 can make an
"A" or "B" if the process is right up to the last statement. They get the
grade for manipulation skills even though they miss a big concept. On the
other hand, if we just ask concept questions, students do not develop the
necessary skills.
Beyond testing, if outside of class work does not count for a grade, then
we de-value data analysis and collection and any task that takes much
analysis thought and time. However, if we count out-of-class work for a
substantial part of the grade, we worry about grade inflation and cheating.
Maybe it is time to consider grading models that do not lump all of the
points in the same basket, thereby equally valuing manipulations skills and
concepts, short processes and longer tasks.
Here is one model that has many different variations--be creative.
To make an "A", a student must do ALL of the following:
1. Make 90% or higher average on the inclass exams.
2. Successfully complete 95% or more of the homework.
3. Turn in 3 satsfactory reports on projects
4. Participate in class (a certain number or percentage of times.)
To make a "B", etc.
In the above model you can also further separate out concepts from skills
in the way you structure assignments/tests/grading. I believe the "Duke"
model designed for Calculus, but appropriate for any level of mathematics,
puts an "80%" minimum on computational skills to pass the course with a "C"
or higher. Other grade determinations come from explorations and/or
concepts.
Now if we could couple a revised grading philosophy with good testing
centers to do our skills testing and send students for remediation as
needed, maybe we could turn math around. Unfortunately, however, the
solution does not lie solely in getting the high schools to give us better
students. The monkey is on our back too.
Martha
Martha Haehl
Maple Woods Community College
2601 N. E. Barry Rd.
Kansas City, Missouri 64156
(816)437-3147
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