ABSTRACT
Let’s review the distinguishing features, or specs, of specs grading in its pure form:
Students are graded pass/fail on individual assignments and tests or on bundles or modules of assignments and tests.
Instructors provide very clear, detailed specifications (specs)—even models if necessary—for what constitutes a passing (acceptable/ satisfactory) piece of work.
Specs reflect the standards of B-level or better work.
Students are allowed at least one opportunity to revise an unacceptable piece of work, or start the course with a limited number of tokens that they can exchange to revise or drop unacceptable work or to submit work late.
Bundles and modules that earn higher course grades require students to demonstrate mastery of more skills and content, more advanced/ complex skills and content, or both.
Bundles and modules are tied to the learning outcomes of the course or the program. Students will not necessarily achieve all the possible outcomes, but their course grade will indicate which ones they have and have not achieved. (Using a point system with specs grading compromises the relationship between grades and outcomes, but other benefits of the system still apply.)
