# 155 - Retakes at Scale: A Key Pillar of Alt Grading Meets Computer Based Testing Facilities with Craig Zilles

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-grading-podcast-6385485/155-retakes-at-scale-a-key-pillar-of-alt-grading-meets-computer-based-testing-facilities-with-craig-zilles
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-grading-podcast-6385485/155-retakes-at-scale-a-key-pillar-of-alt-grading-meets-computer-based-testing-facilities-with-craig-zilles.md
Podcast: [The Grading Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-grading-podcast-6385485)
Published: 2026-06-30T11:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://thegradingpod.com/podcast-test-page/155-retakes-at-scale-a-key-pillar-of-alt-grading-meets-computer-based-testing-facilities-with-craig-zilles
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/b8a1361f-8986-4e81-997d-1deef1a12f7c.mp3
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Duration seconds: 3502

## Resource

One of the biggest objections to alternative grading is also one of the most practical: How can this possibly work in large classes? In this episode, Sharona and Boz welcome computer science professor Craig Zilles to explore what happens when technology is designed not just to make grading easier, but to make better assessment practices possible. Craig shares how his own experiments with second-chance testing evolved into a campus-wide computer-based testing facility that now supports thousands of students and enables frequent assessment, rapid feedback, and multiple opportunities to demonstrate learning. Together, they discuss the logistical barriers that often prevent instructors from adopting alternative grading, the promise and challenges of technology-enhanced assessment, and how thoughtful infrastructure can help bring learning-centered grading practices to even the largest university courses. Links Please note - any books linked here are likely Amazon Associates links. Clicking on them and purchasing through them helps support the show. Thanks for your support! PrairieLearn Contact Craig Zilles at: zilles at illinois dot edu. Resources The Center for Grading Reform - seeking to advance education in the United States by supporting effective grading reform at all levels through conferences, educational workshops, professional development, research and scholarship, influencing public policy, and community building. The Grading Conference - an annual, online conference exploring Alternative Grading in Higher Education & K-12. Some great resources to educate yourself about Alternative Grading: The Grading for Growth Blog The Grading Conference The Intentional Academia Blog Recommended Books on Alternative Grading: Grading for Growth , by Robert Talbert and David…

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