I think of extra credit much like the U.S. tax code. Certain behaviors are supported by tax credits -- buying homes, alternative energy, charitable contributions. It is one way that government guides what we do and how we spend our money. Whatever you think about such policies, most homeowners will continue to deduct their mortgage interest as long as humanly possible.
So, too, with extra credit. I’m generally not a fan of it, preferring students to just get credit for doing the expected work. But I’ve offered additional points for students to improve their grades at different times for various positive behaviors that I want to encourage. Heavy handed? Perhaps. A clear way of showing what I value and want students to value? Yes.
In comments on this blog I’ve seen that I’m not alone, with people offering extra credit for writing additional papers related to course content or attending community events. In no particular order, here are some things for which I have offered extra credit in the past: voter registration, spring-break community service, blood donation, attending a cultural event, obtaining a library card. Some students aren’t eligible to vote or donate blood, I know that. This is extra though -- extra credit for doing something extra. I’ve allowed ineligible students to write something about the activity they can’t participate in, but no one has ever taken me up on that offer.
I’m torn about extra credit, much like I’m torn about government guiding my actions through fiscal policy. In an ideal world, neither would be necessary. Sometimes, though, I really do want my students to do certain things and extra credit is the vehicle I’ve chosen.
What successes and failures have you had with extra credit? How do you feel about the concept in general? Should we even need to offer it?
