Absolute grading is also known as
Absolute grading, correctly identified as Criterion-referenced grading, evaluates a student's performance against a set of predefined standards, learning objectives, or criteria, rather than comparing them to other students in the class. In this system, a student's grade is determined solely by their mastery of the course content or skills, as measured against these established benchmarks. For example, to earn an 'A', a student might need to achieve 90% or more on assessments, regardless of whether other students also achieve this score. This method emphasizes individual achievement and mastery, providing a clear indication of what a student knows and can do. It promotes a focus on learning and understanding the material rather than competing with peers. Unlike relative grading, where the number of 'A's or 'B's might be limited, absolute grading allows all students to achieve high grades if they meet the specified criteria, fostering a more collaborative learning environment.