Grade comparison is harmful to the success of students. Student-to-student grade comparison does not create a positive classroom climate. There are unequal standards as they compare students to each other. All students learn differently. Therefore, a measure of success isn’t true. Students must focus on their improvement in education. Students need to concentrate on their individual goals.
Grade Comparison Can Not be Constant
The positive qualities of a student get overlooked when there is a comparison of peers. The focus changes from strengths to weaknesses. The National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT) does not want students to become labeled based on their performance. Student-to-student comparisons are a flawed method. Students need to focus on achieving goals. Comparisons are bad for student achievement and cause stress. A focus on self-improvement is best for the success of students.
Student performance must compare to previous performances of the student. The acknowledgment of a student’s previous experiences and learning develops new learning. The appreciation of all students’ differences needs acceptance.
As students see themselves at the top of the class or the reverse, at the bottom of the class, they are more likely to see their ability fixed. This could cause a setback in the learning process. In peer comparison, it needlessly wastes the student’s time and energy. Also, it causes anxiety that reduces the ability to think critically, study and recall necessary information.
Grades and Reflection
Grades do not reflect a student’s ability to learn. They give a false impression when they compare themselves to others. Students may lose motivation when compared to peers.
Reflection helps students remember what they learned. Reflection gives students a sense of accomplishment. As students set manageable goals and reflect on the process, they learn. They build confidence in their growth.
Grading is for evaluation and feedback on a student’s work. Teachers can communicate with students on their process of learning and lead them further toward their goals. Grades help parents and teachers to assess the skills, concepts, and standards students know or do not know.
- They let students and parents know their expectations.
- Grades design assignments.
- They provide information about the effort and how to improve.
- Grades direct feedback toward the achievement of goals.
Reflection, feedback, and grades communicate a positive learning climate in the classroom. All three help students understand their achievements.
