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Learning Theory and Concepts

Grade Inflation

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Grade inflation, also called grading leniency, is the general awarding of higher grades for the same quality of work over time, which devalues the grades themselves; higher average grades alone do not prove grade inflation unless it can also be shown that the quality of the work does not merit the higher grade. It is frequently discussed in relation to education in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Poland, Germany, Turkey, South Korea, Japan, China and India.

Facts
Partially Attested
Origin Year
1894 1
1894 is the earliest documented reference the article cites (a Harvard University report on lax grading standards), used to argue grade inflation is longstanding; it is not presented as the phenomenon's own start date.
Core Claim
Grade inflation, also called grading leniency, is the general awarding of higher grades for the same quality of work over time, which devalues the grades themselves. 1
Sources
1. Grade inflation (Wikipedia)
Wikimedia Foundation
  • Arguments section, Harvard 1894 report quote
    the following quote about lax standards from a Harvard University report in 1894 has been used to claim that grade inflation has been a longstanding issue
  • Lead paragraph, first sentence
    Grade inflation (also known as grading leniency) is the general awarding of higher grades for the same quality of work over time, which devalues grades.
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