Rubrics as a guideline
Do some use the rubric as a guideline, but allow the learning process to move to other levels to encourage collaboration and community among students to increase quality postings?
I like to do this for it helps the students guide their learning and lead collaboration efforts that are more rewarding for the students and the participants. I do also make sure it does not get out of hand and stay on track to meet objectives and outcomes.
Monique
Monique,
Good point. The rubric should serve as a guideline/standard for which they can move forward individually or in groups to achieve the set objectives. Rubrics also serve as a good self-assessment tool. Thanks!
Monique, for the organization I teach for assesses me on how closely I follow the rubric they have provided me.
I really like how this online learning actually shows a rubric on how to earn points rather than what to take points off for.
I believe this allows for more positive feedback and encourages the students to strive for better submissions. Jenn
Jenn and Monique,
Presenting a rubric in just that way - how to earn points, not how to lose points - is a good way to approach the assessment process. Remember, assessment is not something we do to our students, but with our students. Thanks!
I use my discussion rubrics as a guideline to grade student participation. I leave the scoring open so I can be flexible based on the students' efforts and knowledge of the topic.
An excellent way to lay out expectations and consistently apply assessment!
Michael,
It's good to have the guidelines spelled out in a rubric so that students understand clearly how to earn participation points. It's important for them as well to understand what is an appropriate, as well as, in appropriate discussion board postings. Thanks!
Richard,
Right on. Any time we can further help students understand the necessary expectations, the better. Thanks!
Rubrics are so effective when used as discussed here. Unfortunately, rubrics can also be misused when they become standardized are are no specific to the assignments or when they are so detailed that they dictate every step of an assignment. I really prefer rubrics that have around five categories and that can be specific to what has been taught and what we want the students to know and be able to do.
Sarah,
You are right. We have to make sure the rubrics are used and developed for the right situations. They hope both students and instructors and should help students move toward the learning objectives. Thanks for your input.
I very carefully follow the rubric and encourage the student to have the same attitude. I have found that it reduces the chances of confusion.
Ron,
Definitely. I always tell the students to use the rubric to self-assess before I assess. Thanks!
Monique,
Good question! I use the rubic as a guideline and even take the time to edit some students' responses to help encourage them to pay better attention to their wirting, to no avail. It is frustrating to witness.
Derrick and Monique,
Thanks for your continued input on rubrics. When used effectively, many will pay attention to their writing and other components of the assignments. Keep trying.
I believe that rubrics are so effective when used as discussed here. All rubrics must be specific to the assignments and be detailed in their explanation within a reason.
Marina
Marina,
I agree. Rubrics, when well-designed, are very effective and assist the instructor and students. Thank you.
