Mastery Grading Conferences

What is mastery grading?

Mastery grading is an approach to student assessment in which student work is graded directly on whether it demonstrates mastery of a clear list of objectives. Rather than using points or partial credit, final grades are based on the degree of mastery each student has demonstrated of the objectives by the end of the course. Students typically have (or can earn) multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery of each objective. Mastery grading puts emphasis on learning, provides clarity for students, and encourages perseverance and growth mindset.

What is the goal for these conferences?

The mastery grading conferences will bring together new and experienced mastery grading practitioners to create a community of practice. We will create a space for participants to make connections with each other, to build a strong and supportive mastery grading community that extends beyond the workshop. Participants will learn the “nuts and bolts” of mastery grading, exchange ideas with others, and begin planning their own mastery-graded classes.

New practitioners will learn the basics of mastery grading, begin planning their own mastery-graded classes in a supportive atmosphere, and make contacts that will support their continued work.

Experienced practitioners will discover new approaches to mastery grading, make new connections, and share their ideas and experience with the community.

New for 2021

We will have two separate conferences to address the different needs of University STEM faculty and Grades 7 - 12 STEM teachers. EVERYONE is welcome at either conference! There will just be more focus on each group at the separate conferences.

Welcome to our new University STEM organizers - Robert Bosley, Drew Lewis, and Gloria Ramos!

Conferences sponsored by: