Rubrics
Rubrics are sets of assessment criteria used to evaluate performance in an assignment or other assessed work. They can communicate clear expectations to students about the quality of work and provide teachers with a standardised framework for evaluating submissions. Rubrics can be used for both formative and summative assessment. They also play an important role in supporting student self-assessment and structuring peer assessment.
Benefits of Using Rubrics
Objectivity and transparency
A rubric supports more objective and transparent assessment and gives students insight into how their work will be assessed.
Clarifies teacher expectations
A rubric shows what the teacher expects and what matters most in the assessment.
Supports student work
A rubric helps students understand the basis on which their work will be evaluated and can guide them as they complete the assignment.
Highlights strengths and weaknesses
After the assessment, students receive useful information about the strengths and weaknesses of their work. They can use this feedback to improve their performance and, where applicable, revise and resubmit the assignment.
Research findings
Research has shown that students value rubric-based assessment and use the results to support their learning (Reddy and Andrade, 2010).
Greater consistency in grading
Rubrics promote greater consistency in grading because each submission is assessed using the same criteria, including when more than one teacher is involved.
Meaningful feedback
In peer assessment, a rubric helps students give and receive practical, meaningful feedback.
Saves time
Using rubrics can save time in the assessment process.
Canvas Guides for Enhanced Rubrics
Creating a Rubric Step by Step
The University of Colorado Boulder’s teaching centre website provides detailed guidance on creating a rubric step by step. It covers different types of rubrics, best practices for designing and using them, and includes examples of a range of rubric formats.