RE: grading system described on syllabus

[Shearon, Tim]

Title: grading system described on syllabus

Joe- Chuck is right, I think. If the students description of a discrepancy between the way grades were determined and the way the syllabus detailed that it would be is accurate that would violate our faculty handbook. I think the student should appeal as there is a clear difference in what was "contracted" with the student on the syllabus and what happened. Of course, I've often seen it happen that a student said a syllabus said X when it clearly said Y and the student didn't read the syllabus well. Have you read the syllabus and seen an admission on the part of the instructor that they violated their own policy. If not I'd remain skeptically objective (sic) till I actually saw the syllabus. :) Tim From: Charles M. Huffman [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, January 25, 2005 12:11 PM To: Teaching in the Psychological Sciences Subject: RE: grading system described on syllabus Joe,   I would have the student file an academic appeal (at least that is what we call it here).  It seems unfair to allow the subjective subtraction of points when it is not objectively defined within the syllabus.  To answer your question more directly—I do not see any defense for that method of grading and the professor should be called to task for it.  Secondly, an academic appeal or appeal to the Academic Dean/Provost or Faculty Senate seems appropriate to me.   I make it a point to make everything as explicit and objective as possible when writing a syllabus.  That way, both the students and I know exactly what is expected of us.    Be Well,   Chuck   ********************************* Charles M. Huffman, Ph.D. Chair, Psychology Dept. Cumberland College, Box 7990 Williamsburg, KY  40769 (606) 539-4419 [EMAIL PROTECTED] *********************************   From: Hatcher, Joe [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, January 25, 2005 12:51 PM To: Teaching in the Psychological Sciences Subject: grading system described on syllabus   Hi colleagues,         I have had an issue come up with a former student now at another university.  The professor detailed in the syllabus the points required for grades, and stated that class participation would be expected, though this was not mentioned as affecting the grade.  My student was given a grade lower than her points dictated, and the professor defended this by noting that a "subjective multiplier" had been applied based, apparently, on classroom participation.         My student is in a difficult position.  I am wondering, first of all, what the defenses are for such a system of grading and, second, if you have any advice I can pass on to my student. Joe Hatcher Ripon College Ripon, WI 54971 USA [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: archive@jab.org To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]