Growth Mindset: The Problem With Grades

The Problem With Grades

Stressed College Student
Source: Google Image

For this week's Growth Mindset challenge, I read Linda Fanagan's article "The Emotional Weight of Being Graded, For Better or Worse."  I really enjoyed this article because it reaffirmed everything I have learned from my psychology classes about the traditional grading system. First, grades take the fun out of learning. Students are constantly aware that there work is going to be judged by a teacher and therefore, are afraid to take risks, think outside of the box, or be creative with their assignments. This also leads to students losing interest in the subject and making them less likely to continue their education and expand their knowledge. I really liked what the article said about grades taking the focus away from learning. Whenever I am completing an assignment, I am constantly comparing it to the rubric because I want to get a good grade rather than revising my assignment to make it the best it can be in my eyes. Frankly, my opinion doesn't matter, whoever is grading it does. That is why I particularly enjoy this classes's grading system. I am able to go at my own pace, pick the assignments I want to do, and explore my creative side without fear that I am going to be deducted points for doing something the grader doesn't like.