Re: Concerned about grades

["Michael N. Monce" <mnmon@CONNCOLL.EDU>]

On Sat, 18 Mar 2000, Bowman, Jassen EM3 wrote:

>         I can see where grading like this creates a bit more work for the
> instructor, but I also can see the added benefit for the student. If the
> student has a weak area that needs to be revisited, it can easily be done on
> the final. And it takes away much of the competitive strain that can be
> induced in a science class with a curved grading scale.
>
>         Just out of curiosity, have you seen a difference in dropout rates
> while using this system vice when you were using a curve?
>
> Take care!
> -Jassen Bowman

        Yes, we have seen a rentention of more females who have expressed
an interest in majoring in physics.  This is in line with what Tobias
found in her work.  The dropout/failure rate for the weaker students
remains about the same.

                        Mike Monce
                        Connecticut College