A Comparison of Grading Patterns between Full- and Part-Time Humanities Faculty: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

The author analyzed grades submitted over three consecutive spring semesters by 6 full-time and 12 part-time humanities faculty at a community college in New Jersey to determine if differences could be distinguished based on faculty status, gender, age, or course time (day or evening). Part-time faculty consistently graded higher than full-time faculty, whereas grading patterns could not be distinguished based on age, gender, or class time. The author notes the study's preliminary nature and defines considerations for future research.