Tania Westrop



I think that assessment is more effective when students are given grades because it makes it very clear to them the level that they are currently working at. This allows them to make effective targets for future improvement. However, once the students have reached the top grade possible, grades then have the potential to become a limiting factor, which can stagnate learning.

Bloggs et al argue that to increase motivation within the classroom formative feedback without grades is most effective. However, in practice current working grades are required in the bureaucratic processes within the educational institution. So, in order to meet this requirement, grades are essential.

It could be argued, that that doesn't need to be shared with students, but that is not a very transparent way of working.