146. Is There a Fair Way to Divide Us? | People I (Mostly) Admire

Mastery Model

The mastery learning model challenges traditional grading by allowing students to learn at their own pace until they fully understand a topic. Steve Levitt explains that this approach could lead to students of various ages learning together, as they are grouped by mastery rather than age 1. This model aims to shift focus from grades to actual learning, potentially transforming student evaluation. Levitt suggests that colleges could benefit from evaluating students based on a portfolio of mastered topics, rather than traditional transcripts 2.

If grades disappeared and colleges were forced to evaluate students on real traits, I think we'd have students who are incentivized to do things that matter instead of just grinding for grades.

--- Steve Levitt

   

Admissions Impact

The shift towards mastery-based education could significantly impact college admissions by emphasizing diverse student traits. Moon Duchin discusses the complexities of graduate school decisions and the importance of diversity in academia 3. She highlights the need for fair evaluation processes that recognize individual potential beyond traditional metrics. Duchin also notes the societal benefits of diversity across various elite sectors, suggesting that academia should not monopolize talented individuals 4.

We need to strive for processes that are fair and that evaluate people based on what they have to offer in the job.

--- Moon Duchin