157 - The Next Chapter of Specifications Grading with Joe Packowski

Specifications grading has become one of the most influential approaches in the alternative grading movement, but how has the model evolved since Linda Nilson first introduced it more than a decade ago? In this episode, Sharona and Boz sit down with Joe Packowski to discuss the newly released second edition of Specifications Grading and the journey that led him from a 25-year career in industry to becoming a leading voice in grading reform. The conversation explores the intersections between higher education and the workplace, the role of data and student feedback in refining grading systems, and how a growing community of practitioners is adapting specifications grading across disciplines and contexts. Along the way, the group reflects on mentorship, professional networks, and what it means for an educational innovation to move from a small pilot project to a global community of practice.

Links

Please note - any books linked here are likely Amazon Associates links. Clicking on them and purchasing through them helps support the show. Thanks for your support!

Specifications Grading 2.0, by Linda Nilson and Joe PackowskiThe Personal Efficiency Program, by Kerry GleesonThe Four Disciplines of Execution, by Chris McChesneySpecifications Grading on LinkedInJoe Packowski on LinkedIn

Resources

The Center for Grading Reform - seeking to advance education in the United States by supporting effective grading reform at all levels through conferences, educational workshops, professional development, research and scholarship, influencing public policy, and community building.

The Grading Conference - an annual, online conference exploring Alternative Grading in Higher Education & K-12.

Some great resources to educate yourself about Alternative Grading:

The Grading for Growth BlogThe Grading ConferenceThe Intentional Academia Blog

Recommended Books on Alternative Grading:

Grading for Growth, by Robert Talbert and David ClarkSpecifications Grading, by Linda NilsenUndoing the Grade, by Jesse Stommel

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