Reflecting on Ungrading
Welcome to the Modern Classrooms Project Podcast. Each week we bring you discussions with educators on how they use blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning to better serve their learners. In this episode, Zach is joined by educators Christine Walker and Craig Meyers to delve into the transformative concept of "ungrading" and its potential to revolutionize education.
Christine and Craig have both embraced ungrading in their teaching practices. Ungrading shifts the focus away from traditional grading systems towards fostering genuine learning experiences. Students are encouraged to reflect, self-evaluate, and engage in meaningful conversations about their progress. Craig added that ungrading allows educators to provide personalized feedback, fostering trust and growth between students and teachers.
Here are the key takeaways from this podcast:
A Paradigm Shift: Ungrading challenges the traditional grading system, emphasizing meaningful learning and fostering intrinsic motivation. As Craig puts it, "it's not about measuring anything; it's just about growing."
Authentic Conversations: Ungrading encourages open dialogues between students and teachers, fostering a deeper understanding of students' abilities and needs. This shift away from grades allows educators to recognize and appreciate a wider range of skills and talents. Christine Walker: "A grade should be a report of skill and not an award or a punishment."
Individualized Assessment: Both educators emphasize the importance of individualized assessment. Christine's approach involves criteria for German skill, employability skills, and personal growth. Craig highlights the significance of allowing students to demonstrate what they've learned in various ways rather than adhering to standardized tests.
In conclusion, ungrading represents a significant departure from traditional grading practices, prioritizing genuine learning, self-reflection, and personalized assessment. Christine and Craig's experiences highlight its potential to inspire curiosity, promote meaningful engagement, and facilitate more authentic teacher-student relationships.
Discussion questions for PLC and PD:
How can educators begin to implement the concept of ungrading in their classrooms, and what steps are necessary to transition away from traditional grading systems? What challenges might they anticipate, and how can these be addressed?
In the context of ungrading, what strategies can teachers employ to foster open and authentic conversations with students about their progress and areas for improvement? How can these conversations promote a growth mindset and a deeper understanding of individual students' learning journeys?
Ungrading encourages a shift from grades as rewards or punishments to grades as reports of skill. How might this change in perspective impact students' motivation, engagement, and overall learning experiences? What strategies can educators use to ensure that skill-based assessment aligns with curricular goals and standards while still embracing student individuality and growth?
Our Host
Zach Diamond studied Music History and Theory at Oberlin College and received a Masters of Music in Music Education from Boston University. He taught music for five years in Lima, Peru, and is currently a Middle School music teacher at DC International School, a language-immersion school where he teaches in Spanish. He began implementing the Modern Classrooms Model in the 19-20 School Year and enthusiastically continues his work with the organization as a mentor and podcast producer.
Our Guest: Christine Walker, Craig Meyers
Connecting with Christine: Email at christine.walker@modernclassrooms.org
Connecting with Craig: Email at craig.meyers@modernclassrooms.org
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