Should instructors grade the written exam shortly after it takes place?

Instructors should indeed grade the written exam shortly after it takes place, as immediate feedback is essential for effective learning. Providing timely grades allows students to understand their performance while the material is still fresh in their minds. Immediate grading can help identify areas where students may need additional support or clarification, facilitating a more responsive teaching approach.

Additionally, waiting a significant time to grade can lead to a disconnect in the learning process, as students may forget the specifics of the exam content and their thought processes at the time of answering. This can hinder their ability to learn from any mistakes they made.

Instructors can also address any common misunderstandings or errors more effectively during review sessions right after the exam, fostering a collaborative learning environment that benefits everyone involved. Grading promptly encourages a culture of accountability and reinforces the importance of the knowledge tested in the exam.