GradingSysteme

GradingSysteme are formal conventions used by educational institutions to evaluate student performance and assign final marks, credits, or certificates. They define what is measured, how performance is scored, and how scores are translated into grades, grade point averages, and progression decisions. The design of a grading system influences assessment practices, reporting, and student motivation, and varies widely across countries, institutions, and disciplines.

Key elements include the grade scale, the meaning of each grade, and the rules for combining individual assessments into an overall mark. Weighting formulas determine how exams, assignments, laboratory work, and participation contribute to the final grade. Policies on late work, attendance, and grade appeals also shape the system's outcomes.

Common formats include letter grades (A to F) with plus and minus variants, numeric scales (for example 0–100 or 0–10), and descriptive scales (Excellent, Satisfactory, Fail). Some systems report a Grade Point Average or a weighted average, and may use pass/fail options for certain courses or programs.

Global practice shows substantial variation. In the United States, grades are often tied to a 0–4.0 GPA and letter grades; in the United Kingdom, performance is reported in percentages or degree classifications; in Germany, a numeric scale from 1.0 (best) to 4.0 (pass) is common; the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) uses A–F or 0–20 for many assessments. These differences affect transfer and international mobility.

Critiques focus on fairness, transparency, and grade inflation, prompting reforms such as standards-based grading, rubric-based assessment, and increased use of pass/fail options to reduce competition and stress. Digital gradebooks and learning analytics increasingly support real-time feedback and more consistent evaluation across courses and instructors.