grade inflation

Definition

The gradual upward creep of grades over time, where today's B+ was yesterday's C. Either students are getting smarter each generation, or we're all cowards afraid of honest assessment. You decide.

Example Usage

Grade inflation at elite universities means the average GPA is now 3.5, making it nearly impossible to distinguish exceptional students from merely competent ones.

Origin

Educational assessment terminology, became prominent concern in 1960s-70s

Fun Fact

Princeton implemented a grade deflation policy in 2004 limiting A-range grades to 35% of students, then abandoned it in 2014 after complaints it hurt students' graduate school prospects

Source: Educational assessment and grading practices terminology

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