* More Accurate Reflection of Performance: A cumulative average provides a more complete picture of a student's performance throughout the course or program. A single final exam or project might not accurately reflect the student's overall understanding or effort. The cumulative average smooths out fluctuations and provides a more robust assessment.
* Early Identification of Struggles: By tracking grades cumulatively, instructors and students can identify potential problems early on. A consistent decline in grades, even if the final grade is still passing, can signal a need for intervention, tutoring, or a change in study habits.
* Motivation and Accountability: Regular assessment and cumulative grading can encourage students to maintain consistent effort throughout the term, rather than simply cramming before the final exam. Seeing their cumulative grade allows them to monitor their progress and adjust their learning strategies accordingly.
* Fairer Assessment (Potentially): In some cases, a cumulative system might be considered fairer than one relying heavily on a single final. A student might have performed poorly on a final due to unforeseen circumstances (illness, stress, etc.), while their cumulative average better reflects their true capabilities. However, this depends heavily on the weighting of assignments and the specific circumstances.
* Better Data for Analysis: Cumulative grading provides richer data for instructors and institutions to analyze student performance. Trends and patterns can be identified, allowing for improvements in curriculum, teaching methods, and support services.
However, it's crucial to note potential drawbacks:
* Weighting Issues: The success of a cumulative system hinges on the appropriate weighting of assignments. A poorly designed weighting system can still misrepresent a student's overall performance.
* Early Grades' Influence: Early grades might disproportionately affect the final cumulative average, especially if later grades are not weighted appropriately. A student struggling early on might find it difficult to raise their grade significantly later.
* Increased Administrative Burden: Tracking and calculating cumulative grades can be more time-consuming than simply recording a final grade.
In summary, a well-designed cumulative grading system can offer significant advantages by providing a more comprehensive and nuanced evaluation of student performance, but careful consideration of weighting and potential drawbacks is essential.