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Does Rank-Order Grading Improve Student Performance? Evidence from a Classroom Experiment

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  • Todd L. Cherry

    (Appalachian State University)

  • Larry V. Ellis

    (Appalachian State University)

Abstract

This paper reports results from a unique classroom experiment that explored the potential of using rank-order grading to improve student performance and learning. Findings suggest that student performance is significantly improved when facing a grading system based on student ranking (norm-reference grading) rather than performance standards (criterion-reference grading). The improved outcomes from rank-order grading largely arise among the high performers, but not at the expense of low performers. Results indicate rank-ordering may eliminate the incentive for high performing students to "stop" once they achieve a stated objective, while not diminishing the incentive for lower performing students.

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  • Todd L. Cherry & Larry V. Ellis, 2005. "Does Rank-Order Grading Improve Student Performance? Evidence from a Classroom Experiment," International Review of Economic Education, Economics Network, University of Bristol, vol. 4(1), pages 9-19.
    • Handle: RePEc:che:ireepp:v:4:y:2005:i:1:p:9-19
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    Cited by:

    1. Mullins, Jamie T., 2018. "Motivating emissions cleanup: Absolute vs. relative performance standards," Journal of Environmental Economics and Management, Elsevier, vol. 91(C), pages 66-92.
    2. Lester Hadsell & Raymond MacDermott, 2012. "Faculty Perceptions of Grades: Results from a National Survey of Economics Faculty," International Review of Economic Education, Economics Network, University of Bristol, vol. 11(1), pages 16-35.

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