Is it against the law for a teacher to have students grade their classmates’ work? My biology teacher has been assigning students to grade all sorts of assignments, including complete packets with constructed responses, rather than just a simple trade-and-grade method. This practice isn’t limited to just one class; it seems to be happening across all subjects. A friend of mine even saw the teacher inputting these student-assigned grades into PowerSchool. So, I’m wondering if it’s illegal for a student to enter grades.
is it illegal for a teacher to make a student grade other students work?
The legality of a teacher having students grade each other’s work can depend on several factors, including school policies, the age of the students, and local education laws. In many cases, teachers can involve students in the grading process as a learning tool, but there are important considerations to keep in mind:
Student Knowledge and Training: If students are not properly trained to grade their peers’ work, it could lead to unfair grading and misunderstandings about the material.
Confidentiality and Integrity: Having students enter grades into a system like PowerSchool raises questions about confidentiality and integrity. Educators typically hold the responsibility for assigning grades to ensure they are fair and accurate.
School Policy: Many schools have policies that outline how grading should be conducted. It would be worth checking your school’s handbook or speaking with an administrator to understand the specific rules in place.
Equity and Fairness: Relying on students to grade each other’s work can also create issues related to equity, especially if some students are more knowledgeable than others.
If you feel uncomfortable about the situation, it could be a good idea to talk with a trusted adult, like a parent or another teacher, who can intervene on your behalf. They might be able to provide guidance or take appropriate action if something seems out of line.