Using unique assignments for reducing the bimodal grade distribution

Abstract

This article describes a study that was intended to reduce the bimodal grade distribution of students of the Management Information Systems department. Unlike the normal distribution that represents many natural groups, a bimodal distribution represents two, sometimes unique, sub-populations within one group. There are many studies of the causes of this phenomenon; however, this study is mainly concerned with finding ways to reduce it. The significance of a bimodal distribution lies in its ability to predict future failures, especially in the lower sub-population. Dealing with these future failures is important due to the sharp reduction in the number of enrolled students and the increase in the dropout rate that has stemmed from various reasons. This eight-year study focused on strengthening students' learning habits, which played a significant role in increasing students' overall motivation and levels of self-accountability and produced a more homogeneous group, as represented by the normal grade distribution.