Workshop

Introduction to Alternative Grading Schemes

Do grades feel like a barrier to learning? Wondering if there’s a better way? This session introduces three popular alternative grading methods—collaborative grading, specifications grading, and standards-based grading. These approaches emphasize transparency, student growth, meaningful assessment, and improved instructor-student communication.

After a brief overview of each method, a panel of faculty will share their experiences implementing alternative grading, including benefits, challenges, and advice for getting started. Join us for a practical discussion on rethinking grading to better support student learning.

Our faculty panelists will be:

  • Daniel James, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, General Faculty
  • Lisa Morkowchuk, Associate Professor of Chemistry, General Faculty
  • David Singerman, Assistant Professor of History and American Studies

Depending on interest, this introductory workshop will serve as the precursor to an in-depth grading scheme design workshop in June 2025.

Event Details

  • Where: Language Commons, New Cabell 298
  • Format: In-Person
  • Audience: Faculty, Graduate Students, Postdocs

Questions about the event?

Contact cte-uva@virginia.edu.

Michael Palmer's headshot'

Michael Palmer

he/him Professor and Barbara Fried Director
Adriana Streifer's headshot'

Adriana Streifer

she/her/hers Associate Director & Associate Professor

Daniel James

Assistant Professor, General Faculty

Lisa Morkowchuk

she/her Associate Professor, General Faculty

David Singerman

he/him Assistant Professor