Ungrading is an equity-minded approach to student assessment. This mixed-methods study surveyed MSW students (n=40) who experienced ungrading in a required social work research course. Students reported that ungrading supported their wellbeing, enhanced their intrinsic motivation, promoted a growth mindset, and reflected social work values.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
Describe the effects of traditional grading approaches on students’ learning, motivation, and wellbeing.
Examine “ungrading” as an equity-minded and strengths-based approach to assessment that is consistent with social work values and relevant to competency-based education.
Explore how ungrading was implemented in a required social work research class, including its rollout in the class, the effect on instructor-student relationships, and specific practices throughout the semester.
