Understanding Relative and Absolute Grading Systems and Their Impact on Students

In the educational arena, grading systems play a crucial role in evaluating students. Two prominent grading systems, Relative Grading and Absolute Grading, are often discussed but are sometimes misunderstood. This article will explore the fundamental differences between these systems and how they impact students and the assessment process.

What is the Difference Between Relative and Absolute Grading Systems?

The difference between relative and absolute grading is subtle but significant. In relative grading, students are assessed based on their performance in comparison to the class average. This means that a good grade can be given even if the majority of the class does not perform well. On the other hand, in absolute grading, grades are assigned based on a predefined scale independent of the class performance.

Relative Grading

Relative grading is a dynamic system that does not have a fixed passing mark. This system provides more flexibility to teachers and faculty in grading and evaluating continuous assessments. Here's how it works:

The highest score in the class or department is considered as the baseline. Other students are graded based on the ratio of their score to the highest score. This system also has the advantage of hiding individual scores, making it more encouraging for students.

For example, if the highest score in a class is 95 and a student scores 72, their grade would be calculated based on the ratio: 72/95. If the scale is 90-100 is an A, a student could possibly get a good grade of B or even A despite not scoring close to the highest in the class.

Absolute Grading

On the other hand, absolute grading is based on a pre-set scale, such as:

91-100 A 81-90 B 71-80 C 61-70 D 0-60 F

In this system, grades are independent of the class performance. If all students fail a particular exam, they will all get failing grades. The focus is more on the difficulty of the questions and the instructors' correction process. This system requires instructors to set balanced and fair exams to ensure a fair distribution of grades.

Impact on Students

The choice of grading system can significantly impact a student's perception of their performance and overall motivation. In a relative grading system, students might feel more encouraged as they can still achieve good grades even if the class performs poorly. However, in an absolute grading system, the benchmark is strict, and achieving a specific grade may require a higher or lower score depending on the set scale.

Comparing the Two Systems

Relative grading is often considered a better means to judge an individual's performance. It accounts for the variability in student performance and external conditions. In contrast, absolute grading puts more pressure on the student's individual performance and adherence to the set scale.

The choice between these systems often depends on the educational institution and its goal. Many US universities follow the absolute grading system, while others may opt for a mix of the two or a different system altogether. The key factor is to choose a method that best evaluates student performance fairly and motivates them to excel.

Conclusion

Both relative and absolute grading systems have their advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these differences can help students and educators make informed decisions about which system is best suited for their educational goals. By recognizing the subtle nuances between the two, we can better understand their impact on student performance and overall academic success.