Rubric grade calculation

The rubric normalised score (i.e. basically a percentage grade) is calculated by adding all of the scores given (minus the minimum score possible) over the maximum grades (minus the minimum grades to achieve a fraction which is then converted into a percentage. 

For example, if you had an assessment form with two criteria, which both have four levels. The Trainer chooses the level with 2 points for the first criterion and 3 points for the second criterion. Then the normalised score is:

This calculation may be different from how you intuitively use rubric. For example, if the Trainer in the example chose both levels with 1 point, the plain sum would be 2 points. But that is actually the lowest possible score so it maps to the grade 0 in Totara. To avoid confusion, it is recommended to always include a level with 0 points in the rubric definition.

So based on the above, let's consider the rubric with two criteria broken down:

• Criterion 1: Levels scored at 1, 2, 3, 4 points
• Criterion 2: Levels scored at 1, 2, 3, 4 points

Suppose the trainer marks the rubric and a learner receives:

• 2 points for Criterion 1
• 3 points for Criterion 2

Calculation:

• Adjusted Scores:
  • Criterion 1: 2 (awarded) - 1 (minimum) = 1
  • Criterion 2: 3 (awarded) - 1 (minimum) = 2
• Sum of Adjusted Scores: 1 + 2 = 3
• Total Possible Above Minimum:
  • Criterion 1: 4 (maximum) - 1 (minimum) = 3
  • Criterion 2: 4 (maximum) - 1 (minimum) = 3
  • Sum: 3 + 3 = 6
• Normalized Score: 3 / 6 = 0.5
• Final Grade: 0.5 × 100 = 50%

Important Considerations

• Minimum Score Awareness: If a learner receives the minimum score for all criteria, their normalized score will be 0%, regardless of the sum of points.
• Include Zero-Point Levels: To accurately reflect performance, ensure each criterion includes a level with 0 points. This allows the rubric to capture the full range of possible performances.
• Consistency in Level Scoring: Maintain consistent point intervals between levels to ensure fairness and clarity in grading.