Follow these five steps to create a rubric.
- Refer to the decision tree to choose your rubric.
- Outline the criteria, either analytically or holistically, by aligning them with the course learning outcomes. For example, if one of your course learning outcomes is “Apply learning theories to contemporary higher education contexts” and you have aligned an assessment with this outcome, then “application” should be a weighted criterion in the rubric for this assessment.
- Decide on a performance level approach (e.g., HD, D, C, P, N)
- Develop descriptors by drawing inspiration from:
- Former students’ submissions
- Assessments that evaluate similar learning outcomes (e.g., if your assessment is project-based, refer to rubrics for other project-based assessments from colleagues, your school, or other disciplines)
- General rubric templates from colleagues, your school, or college
- The CLT sample rubric collection page
It is recommended to start with the highest level of performance and work your way down.
- Revise the rubric and reflect on its effectiveness for future improvements.