FAQ: Extra credit philosophy
Rich Cameron
Issue date: 5/15/02 Section: 100x MM Online
Toward the end of each semester I get inudated with requests for extra credit opportunties. The general answer usually is no, or at least probably not.
I am not a big believer in extra credit as a means of improving weak performance. It is more important that one concentrate on doing well with the stated class material rather than look for extra work that can be done.
That not withstanding, there ARE times when extra credit is worthy. For instance, from time unexpected opportunities pop up that relate to the class, but are outside of the class plans. These usually come in the form of a workshop, guest speaker or conference that would enhance the class experience, but where it is understood that most class members cannot participate. If they could, I'd probably make it a class activity.
The other situation is when someone simply has done lots of extra work all semester long along with the class because he/she is just so excited about the class. In such cases, especially when a person is real close to the next higher grade, the little push to the next highest grade is warranted.
Extra credit, in my philosophy, is not to substitute for failing to do established assignments or for working harder on those assignments.
At this point, I know of no special workshops or conferences coming up that would qualify.
I am not a big believer in extra credit as a means of improving weak performance. It is more important that one concentrate on doing well with the stated class material rather than look for extra work that can be done.
That not withstanding, there ARE times when extra credit is worthy. For instance, from time unexpected opportunities pop up that relate to the class, but are outside of the class plans. These usually come in the form of a workshop, guest speaker or conference that would enhance the class experience, but where it is understood that most class members cannot participate. If they could, I'd probably make it a class activity.
The other situation is when someone simply has done lots of extra work all semester long along with the class because he/she is just so excited about the class. In such cases, especially when a person is real close to the next higher grade, the little push to the next highest grade is warranted.
Extra credit, in my philosophy, is not to substitute for failing to do established assignments or for working harder on those assignments.
At this point, I know of no special workshops or conferences coming up that would qualify.
