Optimizing AI Feedback and Grading Suggestions with TimelyGrader

As the landscape of education evolves, so does the role of technology in facilitating effective teaching and learning experiences. TimelyGrader is here to help instructors effectively integrate AI into the classroom, harnessing the power of four core types of information to deliver effective, tailored feedback and grading suggestions. Our AI uses the following components as the building blocks for this context:

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1. An assignment description 
2. An assignment rubric
3. A graded baseline 
4. Additional specifications

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Written out in list form this seems simple, however it’s easy to get overwhelmed when diving into the details. What kinds of information should be included in the assignment description for optimized results? Do you need to add descriptions to every criterion?

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In this blog post, we'll delve into best practices for creating the essential inputs that TimelyGrader relies on. By optimizing these inputs, instructors can harness the full potential of TimelyGrader’s AI to enhance the grading and feedback process.

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‍01. The Assignment Description: Setting the Stage

A well-crafted assignment description is the foundation upon which TimelyGrader builds its understanding of the task at hand. To optimize this input for AI:

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1. Clarity is Key: Avoid ambiguity and use straightforward language to articulate goals, expectations, and requirements. 
2. Break it Down: Organize the assignment into distinct sections or components. This helps TimelyGrader analyze and provide targeted feedback on specific aspects of the assignment.
3. Include Keywords: Incorporate keywords and terms that are crucial for understanding the subject matter. This aids TimelyGrader in contextualizing the assignment within the broader scope of the course.

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Example of an unclear assignment description point

“Include three relevant citations, cited in one of the acceptable citation styles listed in the syllabus.” 

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What can be improved? 

This point is vague and lacks explicit details. For best results, you’ll want to expand on these points to remove any subjectivity. Explain what you mean by relevant, and include specifics of the accepted citation styles. 

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Optimized assignment description point

“Include three recent (published within the last five years) citations that directly support your analysis. Ensure citations are in proper APA or MLA style."

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Clear and specific assignment descriptions provide the AI with a well-defined context. Word count, topic focus, and citation requirements help TimelyGrader understand the expected scope, ensuring more accurate feedback by aligning with specific well-defined criteria.

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‍02. Assignment Rubric: Precision in Evaluation

Creating a rubric that aligns with TimelyGrader's capabilities is essential for accurate and consistent grading. Consider the following tips:

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1. Include descriptors: TimelyGrader provides instructors with the opportunity to provide descriptions of both the criterion, as well as each rating associated with it. This creates a nuanced understanding of expectations and assists TimelyGrader in delivering precise grading suggestions.
2. Standardize language and format: Maintain consistency in the language and structure of your rubric across ratings and criteria. Where possible,  use standardized terminology and a consistent format to help the AI recognize and interpret grading standards accurately. 
3. Quantify where possible: If it aligns with the criterion requirements, assign numerical values or clear descriptors to different levels of performance. This enables TimelyGrader to process and analyze student work more effectively, providing a basis for consistent and objective grading suggestions.

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Example of a vague criterion 

Organization (5 rating levels).

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What can be improved?

This is a vague criterion that lacks specificity, providing no clear guidance on what aspects of the assignment organization are being evaluated.

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Quantifiable and detailed criterion

Organization: Demonstrates a clear and logical structure, with a well-defined introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion (5 rating levels with titles and descriptions).

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The revised criterion provides specific details on what constitutes effective organization. This clarity helps TimelyGrader to assess student work objectively and consistently.

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03. Assignment Baseline: Guiding the AI with past examples

The assignment baseline serves as a reference point for TimelyGrader, allowing it to understand your unique grading practices. While not mandatory, we highly recommend creating a baseline if you have past assignment examples as this can increase the accuracy of suggested grades and feedback even further. 

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Our Tip

Select a representative example. For best results, choose a high-scoring assignment that exemplifies the aspects of this assignment noted in the description and rubric. This establishes a benchmark for TimelyGrader to gauge performance. While low-scoring examples can be used to highlight common errors and areas for improvement, using a high-scoring baseline provides a more constructive foundation for teaching an AI to understand and apply grading suggestions effectively.

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04. Additional Specifications: Tailoring the AI to Unique Needs 

Instructors can provide TimelyGrader with additional specifications to address unique cases or considerations. Ways to optimize this input:

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1. Clear Communication: Communicate any specific instructions or requirements for grading and feedback in unique cases. TimelyGrader relies on explicit guidance to adapt to diverse scenarios.
2. Provide Examples: Whenever possible, supplement your specifications with examples. This aids TimelyGrader in grasping the nuances of your instructions and applying them effectively.

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Here are some examples of additional specifications you could provide in this section

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1. Adjust language level: Request that the AI adjust the language level of feedback being delivered. For example, if you’re teaching an ESL course, you could ask the AI to use straightforward sentences and avoid complex vocabulary to enhance comprehension.
2. Emphasize certain assignment criteria: Specify assignment criteria that should be prioritized in feedback. For instance, ask the AI to focus on creativity, critical thinking, or research depth based on the nature of the assignment.
3. Specify tone and style: Outline the desired tone and style of feedback. For example, request a positive and encouraging tone or a more formal style, depending on the nature of the course and assignment.
4. Address Technical Writing Skills: Specify a focus on technical writing skills if relevant to the course. Instruct the AI to provide feedback on precision, clarity, and adherence to technical writing conventions.
5. Emphasize Reference to Specific Texts: Direct the AI to ensure that students reference particular course materials in their assignments. For example, instruct the AI to provide feedback encouraging students to incorporate insights from 'Introduction to [Book Title]' by [Author] to enhance their analysis if their assignment doesn’t reference these materials. 

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By optimizing assignment descriptions, rubrics, baselines, and additional specifications, educators pave the way for AI-enhanced feedback and grading suggestions that are tailored, insightful, and conducive to student growth. Understanding the diverse needs of each assignment, TimelyGrader ensures the seamless integration of technology and your teaching practices for an enriched educational experience. 

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Thank you for taking the time to read this post! If you have any questions about specific assignment requirements or want to learn more about how TimelyGrader can integrate into your classroom, please feel free to reach out to our team and we’ll be happy to help.