Implementing specifications grading in MPA courses: A potential strategy for better work-life balance

Public administration scholarship has documented the effectiveness of rubrics in assessing student competencies within classrooms and across MPA programs. Rubrics are one of many innovative techniques, however. As we advance pedagogy in public administration, scholars should consider additional grading techniques and evaluate a grading system beyond just its effectiveness. To fill this gap, I overview a new grading approach called specifications grading, which was developed by sociologist Linda Nilson. I explain its structure and offer an example of how I implemented it in a graduate-level public administration course, and then I summarize my experience and how students viewed the specifications grading. Finally, I conclude with challenges faculty may face in implementing the system as well as opportunities for a better work-life balance through a potentially more efficient grading method.