In this episode of the Forum Faculty podcast, host Tom Cox is joined by Mike Hude, Joel Sellier, and Shane O'Neill to delve into the complexities and controversies surrounding grades in education. The discussion covers the transactional nature of grades, how they can detract from genuine learning, and the ways in which teachers can use grades as both motivational tools and communication devices. The teachers share personal anecdotes and experiences, debate the merits of public versus private grades, and explore potential alternatives to traditional grading systems. The conversation wraps up with reflections on how grades affect students' identities, parent expectations, and the long-term implications for higher education and careers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 00:42 What's Wrong with Grades? 02:03 Grades as a Motivational Tool 03:07 Effort vs. Mastery in Grading 05:29 Subjectivity and Objectivity in Grading 13:05 Student Identity and Grades 16:38 Teacher Strategies and Challenges 33:29 Public vs. Private Grades 35:45 Healthy Shame in Grades 36:16 The Wall of Shame for Teachers 36:43 Reflecting on Test Grades 39:55 Parental Pressure and College Expectations 45:45 Lessons Learned from Grades 59:16 The Value of Grades and Feedback 01:05:08 Concluding Thoughts