Applying lean six sigma to grading process improvement

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explain how the lean six sigma (LSS) methodology can be implemented in a teaching context to positively impact the experience of both the instructor and student. The paper focuses on: describing the application of the LSS methodology in streamlining the grading process; reporting the findings; and examining possibility of deploying the LSS methodology in additional aspects in the education sector. Design/methodology/approach The observations presented in this paper stem from a small-scale case study of LSS implementation in an instructional context. Findings The implementation of LSS methodology allowed the authors to generate a feedback system that is focused, scaffolding and cumulative while meeting the goal of requiring less time to produce for the instructor. Research limitations/implications - This paper is based on an empirical study of a single process intervention with only a small sample in a single instructional context; therefore, the research results may lack generalizability. Further testing of the proposed propositions is encouraged. Practical implications - The paper includes an analysis of current practice and implications for the deployment of DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve and control) method. A combination of lean and six sigma techniques were deployed in a post-secondary class setting to demonstrate how different techniques can be used to improve instructional processes. Originality/value This paper produces one more example for LSS implementation in an educational-instructional context for a small but growing base of literature.