Teacher Tips Strategies for Staying on Top of Grading
A necessary evil
There are plenty of teachers out there that love the classroom experience, but many of them would admit that grading is not their favorite part of education. Even disciplined teachers may find it difficult to stay on top of grading because it is often human nature to avoid tasks that are somewhat unpleasant. In addition, certain subjects seem to lend themselves to very large quantities of papers, quizzes, and other material that needs constant correcting. Therefore, teachers sometimes need some structure when it comes to grading. Here are a few thoughts on strategies for staying on top of grading.
Designate a time
One of the most basic ways to stay on top of grading is to schedule particular time slots where grading can occur. Putting together a weekly calendar can be an invaluable task for many teachers. If they let the week unfold and then let themselves react to what comes up, they may find grading gets pushed farther and farther back. if they schedule certain time slots throughout the week for grading and then discipline themselves to sit down during those times, they may find that the grading is not so overwhelming. In addition, it is always prudent to do some longer-term analysis of calendars and schedules so that certain events do not clash with large grading loads. Granted, this is sometimes easier said than done, but a little planning and foresight can go a long way.
Make the most of small opportunities
Sometimes the best way to stay on top of grading is to use small amounts of time available throughout the day. This can include break times, lunch hours, and times during class when students are taking a test or working together in groups. It can be tempting during some of these times to relax, get a cup of coffee, or just do something mindless on the Internet. While these activities of refreshment are valuable and sometimes needed, they can quickly become a habit, and a number of worthy time slots may pass by throughout the day without any grading getting done.
Use technology
In some cases, it may be appropriate and helpful to use technology. Rather than having paper-driven tests, it is possible for some tests to be taken on a computer in lab and be self-graded. Or, teachers might use slightly older technology and use scantron-type forms rather than traditional paper and pencil. Using technology may require some training, setup, and logistical support, but in the long-run it may save the teacher some time if they allow technology to do some of their work.
Change grading methodologies
Sometimes teachers get to a point where they must re-design their graded materials in order to fit better with outcomes, curriculum, and lesson plans. While the teacher does not necessarily want to lessen the workload or remove assignments that test key competencies, they can sometimes change the structure of graded assignments. For example, they may be able to correct material in class, either by having the students correct their own or by trading papers. Or, there may be times when assignments get consolidated, which can lead to less homework to grade in the long run.
Get some help
Finally, there are times when it may be appropriate for certain teachers to get some help with their grading. This can include people like teacher assistants who may be able to do some lower-level grading that is more tedious and can save the teacher a lot of time. Granted, it may not be appropriate for certain TA's to see some material, and they usually do not have the skill to deal with higher-level homework and projects. However, they can be a good resource that may lessen the burden of grading so that they teacher does not have to bear the brunt of the work.
A required activity
Grading is, in many ways, a necessary evil of being a teacher. Most teachers do not love to grade, but they recognize it's importance in the educational process. If teachers are willing to discipline themselves and make grading a priority during the week, they can often stay "on top" of papers, quizzes, and tests. Otherwise, teachers may find that every weekend is spent with a red pen and giant pile of paper that never seems to shrink.
