The Reform and Influence of Standards-based Grading in Secondary Schools
Abstract
Standards-based grading is being utilized in many secondary schools across the United States. Research shows that there are many benefits that students are afforded, such as the ability to have a more personalized learning approach, be provided accommodations and modifications to show mastery within the standards, and have the ability to show more academic achievement in a rigorous environment. As educators make the change to standards-based grading they are also met with many challenges, which include ensuring parents and students are aware of why the change is necessary, as well as putting in the time, effort to train teachers accordingly and to justify the monetary costs associated with making such a change. Parents, students, and educators have expressed their concerns when grading in this manner, but many have experienced a positive impact on students’ ability to learn and the increased motivation they have towards learning.