How to Score a Rubric on a Computer
Using Any Decent Database

Planning

1. Establish the categories of observable content or behaviors to be scored.
   
2. List them in the order that it will be easiest to score them in.
   
3. Determine the decriptors for standards of the performance or the range of scores possible for each category- linked to a particular level of performance or content.
   
4. Jot down the ranges beside the category that they will score. For example:

   • Identifies A Minimum of Two Parties in Conflict:
     0-10 pts.
     (example of a quantative or analytic scale)
   • Indicates the Perspective of the Author:
     Neglected, Beginning, Mastery, Expert
     (example of a qualitative or global scale)

5. Think about what other information that you would like to include in the data set- student name, for instance... I usually separate first and last so that I can export or print after an alphabetical sorting of the records. You may wish to include class period, title of presentation, group number, etc.
   
   

Setting Up the Database

1. Open a new database file.
   
2. Create the fields starting with student name and other personal information.
   
3. Move on to the categories to be evaluated; list the possible score if it is an analytic (or quantitative) rubric.
   
4. Include a total score field if it is an analytic (or quantitative) rubric.
   
5. Click on finished or done button.
   
6. If it is a analytic rubric, format the total score field as a numeric, calculated field.
   
7. You may wish to include comments section for extra observations.
   
8. Type in the formula to automatically calculate the total score. This usually is done by typing "=sum(observed category A + observed category B +observed category C + observed category D +...)"
   
9. Copy student roster from a spreadsheet, text file, or type in the names.
   
10. Begin to make observations, use databases match feature if performance takes place as a group.
    
11. While in the list view, sort names alphabetically, copy grades and paste into gradebook program or gradebook. Alternately, you made need to copy student name(s) field and final grade and save it in spreadsheet form to import into your gradebook program.
12. Using the data view (or report view with custom labels) design a student report card that shows the student their individual scores for all observables (and the total if it is an analytical or quantitative rubric).
13. Rethink and revise...

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