Rubrics

As I close my eyes ans drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     I often write about the benefits of obtaining multiple perspectives. A variety allows us to think through these, formulate our own opinions, conclusions of the perspectives that we have gathered. But if we limit ourselves to a certain perspective, we have created our own limitations, however; to be able to obtain variety, multiple perspectives is not something that we are all blessed with through the institutions or experiences that we possess, attend, or encounter. Sometimes it is when we step out that we realize that there are other opinions worth exploring.

     This is what came to mind when I thought about the idea of a rubric. A rubric is an assessment tool that is used by educators. while there are opinions and criticisms with regards to this tool, my own critical view has changed when I thought that the rubric is an equitable tool for assessment purposes. This is because within each of the levels there are specific criterion, if these criterion's are fulfilled, you get the points. This is a subtle, yet profound observation, as it allows for the success of every student. Success is based on the actual work, assignments that are completed.

     Here there is also room to reduce teacher bias, stereotyping, and prejudices. Also if the student feels that there has been unfairness in the marking scheme, these are documented, and can be presented to the teacher / educator for questions, discussion or complaint. Teacher / educator bias has been present in the school system historically and to the present day. While educators do in fact view the making of rubrics time consuming, they do present efficient for an effective grading tool. Of course if there are factors involved in student success of learning outcomes these should be addressed as a case by case basis. Ultimately equitable practice within a school system is beneficial to the school community as a whole, but also the society where the students will inevitably be integrated. If educators can use grading tools through the lens of achieving equity, that I do see that this tool should be praised, rather than criticized.  

My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :)

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand written on September 30th, 2018.
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