Comments and points representing "lore" rather than proven facts are presented in this outline to summarize some of the issues raised by critics and proponents of various methods of grading rather than presenting a summary of research. Pro and con arguments are those typically advanced by proponents or detractors and are not presented as facts.…

A learning contract is a document, drawn up by a student and his instructor or advisor that specifies what the student will learn, how this will be accomplished, within what period of time, and what the criteria of evaluation will be. The student and instructor agree upon specific objectives, resources to be used, and feedback sessions.…