Grade Inflation: Too Much Talk, Too Little Action

Abstract

Grade inflation in academic institutions. Is it a subject so complex and pervasive in education that it defies resolution? The issue of grade inflation is of concern to college students, faculty, administrators and future employers. There is much gnashing of teeth, some veiled threats, wringing of hands, and both written and oral discussion of the topic but grade inflation persists. A few colleges have attempted to curb grade inflation through various grading policies that are often rejected by faculty and unfair to students. If the problem is generally universal among academic institutions and a threat to the validity of grades as an indicator of  true academic performance, then why not establish grading guidelines, monitor adherence to the guidelines, and quit making such a fuss over grading? The purpose of this paper is to bring attention to the various questions that bear on the discussion, should be addressed in working toward a solution that may still be too elusive or contentious, and suggest actions to curb grade inflation.