Beyond Conventional Grading: Alternate Possibilities (and Challenges) to Assessing Student Writing

In support of ongoing efforts across the University of Minnesota to create more just and equitable learning environments, some instructors have explored and implemented alternative models for assessing student writing. In this panel, two instructors will describe their experiences with grading contracts, specifications grading, portfolios, and ungrading. We’ll discuss some of the benefits and some of the challenges that accompany these practices. A student panelist will also share their experiences with alternative assessment models. 

Panelists: Maggie Bergeron, Theatre Arts & Dance; Josef Woldense, African American & African Studies; Madeleine Luskey, Applied Economics

Facilitator: Matthew Luskey (Assistant Director, Writing Across the Curriculum)
Audience: Faculty members, instructors, and graduate students
Format: Onsite faculty and student panel and discussion