According to accreditation and professional bodies, evaluation and grading are a high priority in counselor education. Specifications grading, an evaluative tool, can be used to increase grading rigor. This article describes the components of specifications grading and applies the framework of specifications grading to a counseling theories course.

Since the norm-referenced grading system produces a student-teacher conflict situation, a climate and grading system conducive to supportive interaction seems desirable, especially in an interpersonal communication course. This can be accomplished through contract grading, in which the instructor defines the contract components and the student…

Describes an introductory, college level speech course based on contract grading. Includes the requirements for the various grades, student reactions to contract grading, the grade contract, and a twelve item bibliography. (DD)

Stresses the advantages of contract grading to both students and teachers. A sample contract defines behavioral objectives on various cognitive levels. (MH)

Performance contracting offers advantages over traditional grading in that it provides for individualization of instruction, provides for measureable goals and objectives, and allows for individual growth rates. Two methods of performance contracting are possible; the first type calls for the student to determine what grade they desire for the…

Describes a self-paced mastery learning process applied to an introductory sociology course at Lambton College (Sarnia, Ontario) in an attempt to correct traditional instructional and grading "malpractices." Describes course goals and organization, behavioral objectives, grading contracts, teaching techniques, student evaluation and feedback, and…

Opinions of contract grading were received from 51 undergraduate education majors and 28 graduate students majoring in education in Acadia University (Nova Scotia, Canada). Students at both educational levels reacted to contract grading in a clear and decisivly positive manner. They agreed that the grading system and assignments were made clear…

Designed to provide the home economics teacher with a resource of enrichment materials for gifted/talented students, this manual consists of information to assist home economics teachers and students in designing enrichment materials to supplement classroom learning and suggested learning activities in five home economics areas. Part 1 of the…