"Cheating the system is easier in a gradeless classroom"

I attended a debate recently conducted by some teachers and students in my school. One of the arguments that really stuck out to me was the argument that it is easier for a student to "cheat" their way through a grade-less system. It was argued that in traditional classrooms the grade is what holds you accountable and makes you less likely to cheat. This rose an interesting thought; hasn't everyone in their life copied someone's homework? Everyone has looked at someones else's work, directly or indirectly taking their ideas to influence their own work. Is this not considered cheating the system? Most teachers are aware that this goes on, however the effort and thought that needs to be put in to stop the problem drives them to allow this to go on.

Regardless of this, the student making this argument pointed out that when arguing to show your learning progress in a grade-less classroom, you can "fluff" or make your work seem better than it really is. A student with an ability to speak very well, that can produce and amazing speech will receive a better grade even if their work isn't to show for it. This however isn't the truth, it is harder to show progress and growth in a product that isn't there. The leniency in a grade- less classroom allows for more creativity and freedom for a student to grow as a learner, but also requires for a student to be held more accountable.

Based on personal experience I have found that in the leniency of a grade less system it is easier for me to grow and explore myself as a learner. With this however it is also more difficult in some ways. I tend to lack motivation to turn in some assignments on time. This is because I have "succumb to system". Being drilled into my head my whole life, I am not able to function away from the system. Now, towards the end of my year I believe I have adapted well, but it takes some serious adjustment. This is why we should start gradeless system at a younger age not even just in high school. But that's for another blog post...The point of this paragraph was to highlight that I have personal experience with the feedback system and when I don't hold myself accountable I have a very hard time arguing for the grade that I want. There is very clear way for my teacher to see the work that is my best and the world that was rushed, or does not exist in an attempt to pull one over and deceive him.

Check out my blog post which goes more in depth about cheating in traditional classrooms

https://mm8243.wixsite.com/gradelessness/home/are-teachers-really-for-the-students