Yes, There is Hope! Strategies Around Marking

Abstract

Marking or grading has traditionally been seen as one of the most difficult, challenging, and for some the most unpleasant part of their academic jobs.  This session suggests a variety of different approaches to marking that will help to make it less onerous, less time-consuming, and perhaps even fun.  The presenter will talk about a unique system of colour-coded grading that she has developed which makes the comments on student work more transparent but also more meaningful. In addition, she will present a system she developed called “54321” which paces grading according to the professor‘s own time constraints and attention span.  The session will also discuss flexible deadlines for providing feedback to students, a number of helpful rubrics for marking as well as to manage student expectations and work, and will reflect philosophically on why grading is a particularly difficult task.  Delving into the professor‘s time management style, the session will also make suggestions as to when to grade and even where.  This fast-paced, informative session is meant to help those who are starting out in their marking careers, and those who have been in the trenches for a number of years.