Implementation of the Multiplier, an Alternative Grading System for Formative Assessments (Journal Article)

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Abstract-

Homework has been shown to provide positive impacts on student performance at the undergraduate level. Providing an incentive for students to complete homework assignments, however, can be challenging and result in grade inflation or promotion of a mentality where students attempt to collect points rather than use these assignments for feedback and growth. In this work, we describe implementing and applying the multiplier, an alternative grading system that rewards students for completing formative assessments while stressing the importance of content mastery. This grading system has been shown in a pilot study to reward the efforts of students who demonstrate mastery of course content in summative assessments as indicated by high scores on these assessments. Hypothetical application of the multiplier across three courses with varying audiences and course-levels shows similar impacts on student grades.