What is mastery grading? Mastery grading is an approach to student assessment in which student work is graded directly on whether it demonstrates mastery of a clear list of objectives. Rather than using points or partial credit, final grades are based on the degree of mastery each student has demonstrated of the objectives by the end of the course. Students typically have (or can earn) multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery of each objective. Mastery grading puts emphasis on learning, provides clarity for students, and encourages perseverance and growth mindset.
This summer (June 5 – 6, 2020), Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is hosting the first-ever national conference on mastery-based grading. The conference aims to bring together new and experienced mastery grading practitioners to create a community of practice. This year’s focus is on Mathematics Instruction in higher education. The conference has no registration fee, you just need to get there. If you are interested in mastery-based grading, this is a great opportunity to learn more and connect with like-minded faculty. Register for the Mastery Grading Conference by April 21, 2020.