RhetoricVille

I am doing all of my grading via computer these days. When I am in the office and see boxes around for dropping off papers, I think, “How 20th Century.” There are numerous advantages to grading on the computer and returning the work through an online classroom program such as Blackboard.

First, I get to type my comments. I get all the space I need to type them, and there is a good chance students will be able to decipher what I am saying.

Second, I get to have a copy of every paper submitted by every student, and a copy of all of my comments on those papers.

Third, I don’t have to lug around a bunch of papers.

Although I have never lost a student paper, I think the odds are less now of that every happening.

There are some drawbacks. Mostly these involved limitations in software and in student experience with the software. I don’t get excited about program glitches. I give everybody a second chance to submit work if something goes wrong. Let’s face it, I can’t grade more than one paper at a time anyway, regardless of the technology.

Speaking of grading, it is time to do some more!