Why is Grading Important?

Grading is a matter of utmost importance. In a Report issued by a Faculty Committee on Grading in the late 1970's, and reconfirmed by a Committee of the College Council in the mid 80's, the point was made that "the development of a student's personal critical ability is in great part determined by how the student is evaluated by his instructors." The Report went on to say:

"Students do need support in order to learn, but more significantly, as working artists they need to develop professionalism and a self-critical approach. It is the responsibility of the faculty at Parsons to deal with this issue in what we consider a complex and realistic manner."

A low grade represents the student's failure to perform. To give a high grade for mediocre work is to deceive the student. Grades should be understood as symbols of the faculty member's evaluation of the quality of the student's work. To receive a poor grade makes a demand on the student to ask "why" and this, hopefully, marks the beginning of a self-critical attitude. The Committee recognized the value and need for faculty support of the student. However, this should not be confused with grading which is a symbolic reference either to performance or development, depending on the type of course in question. In the end, the goal is and always has been the same: to help the student ask the questions which will enable him/her to materialize his concepts.

Each grade is counted in determining a student's grade point average and academic status. Academic status is monitored by the Director of Advising both to identify and remedy problems and to determine eligibility for continued enrollment and financial aid.

Grades are also evaluated by people and agencies outside of the School. When students apply for grants or fellowships, apply to graduate schools, or are being considered for professional positions, academic records play important roles in outcomes. Grades reflect both the performance of the student, and the standards set by the instructor.