Let Them Decide: Student Performance and Self-Selection of Weights Distribution

Abstract

Previous researchers have focused on student sense of control, grading, and academic performance. However, the influence of letting students self-select the percentage weights for graded course components is not clear. In this research students selected the percentage weights distribution for the graded components in the Capstone: Strategic Management course. Students were then surveyed to solicit their feedback. The results indicate that student sense of control and performance were positively influenced by self-selecting the weights distribution. Moreover, the self-selection process itself may account for variance in performance more so than calculating final course grades using a particular weights distribution.

Keywords:

• assessment
• business capstone
• sense of control
• student performance

Notes

^aMarginal significant difference, p = .059.

**p < .01.