I suspect this is a similar trend across the country. I thought it was an interesting comparison though of the public universities across a state with UM giving out far more A’s and A+’s (that wasn’t even a thing at my undergrad) than others.
I track with their hypothesis that UM students are stronger and more college prepared overall. But still, 74% of ALL grades are A- or above? Almost a 20% increase in the last 10 years.
Read this recently as well and frankly glad to see that the general approach to grading has been modified for the times. Good educators understand that the world has changed and this is a natural response. While there might be some argument for developing depth of understanding through massive tomes of reading, there is also the other side, which is why would that be necessary in this day and age? Information is at our fingertips at all times. Instead apply the foundational knowledge to critical thinking skills and problem solving. It’s also great that they’re acknowledging that this generation is incredibly hardworking, bright and savvy. They are!
If the school generally takes 3.8-4.0+ students from HS that are also well rounded individuals, meaning that do lots of things and need to manage their time well, then why wouldn’t it be expected that over 70% of these same students get A’s throughout their collegiate career? Why is grade inflation assumed?
It’s interesting. But the students that I have known to get almost all As work their tail of to accomplish this. So working hard after high school isn’t that unusual. Go to the library on Friday and Saturday night. Students take studying seriously.